Human rights organizations, lobby groups, youth, and survivors of this year’s abductions have announced that Monday’s planned nationwide demonstrations against ongoing abductions and enforced disappearances will proceed as scheduled in all 47 counties.
The protesters argue that the demonstrations are aimed at pressuring the government to release those believed to have been abducted, end the arbitrary arrests, and address the demands made by Generation Z in June.
The recent surge in abductions—over 10 in December alone and more than 80 throughout the year—has sparked outrage across Kenya. Despite government denials, human rights groups, victims, and youth activists are calling on Kenyans to join Monday’s nationwide protests to demand the release of those abducted by security agents and an end to the ongoing arrests.
Shakira Wafula, activist, commented: “It’s Occupy Everywhere, because the youths who have disappeared come from all walks of life. This month alone, 12 youths have been abducted. The government needs to tell us—if they are not responsible, why are they not providing security?”
Human rights activist Odhiambo Jiro added: “As we enter the new year, we urge all Kenyans to rise up, organize, and express our displeasure through these protests.”
The protest organizers have vowed to mobilize Kenyans across all 47 counties and the diaspora to demand thorough investigations into the forceful abductions.
Lavani Mila, chairperson of the Kikao movement, stated: “Tomorrow, we will turn out in full force. Everyone must respect the Constitution, and the youths who have been abducted must be released. The government must tell us who is responsible for their abductions.”
Zaha Indimuli, an activist from the End Femicide movement, said: “For this protest, we are not only protesting abductions; we are protesting the government’s failure to act. We do not anticipate any change unless they resign.”
Protesters have also warned they will use online platforms to voice their outrage. Those who participated in the June Gen Z protests but have since shifted allegiance to the government have been cautioned against joining Monday’s demonstrations.
Protester Joshua Okayo explained: “Some of us have been silenced out of fear because others are benefiting from the government. A number of us feel it’s time for change, which is why we remain on the streets.”
Activists from Nanyuki have also pledged to join the nationwide protests. They have condemned the abductions and called for thorough investigations into the victims who have already been taken.
While police have not officially banned Monday’s protests, previous demonstrations in the city have led to deadly confrontations with the police and the arrest of protesters.
