Nairobi, Kenya – January 6, 2025 – Good News, Bill Mwangi, Bernard Kavuli, and Rony Kiplangat, who were abducted in December, have been released by their abductors this morning. Mwangi was found safe, Kavuli was located in Kitale after being abducted from Ngong, and Kiplangat was discovered in Machakos County.
These releases come amid ongoing public protests and an increasing demand for transparency and justice in cases of abductions in Kenya. The trio had been among several individuals reported missing after they criticized the administration on social media platforms. The wave of abductions has sparked nationwide concern and led to protests under the hashtag #EndAbductionsKE, calling for the government to address these incidents.
However, the situation remains tense as the whereabouts of other missing individuals, including the well-known cartoonist Gideon “Kibet Bull” Kibet and Steve Mbisi, are still unknown.
The public outcry has been particularly vocal about Kibet Bull, whose satirical work has often been critical of governmental policies and actions.
The releases of Mwangi, Kavuli, and Kiplangat have been met with both relief and caution by activists and family members.
While there is celebration for their safety, there is a palpable worry that these releases might be a strategic move to quell the rising tide of public demonstrations planned for this week. The timing of the releases, just before major protests, has fueled speculation about governmental motives.
Calls for a thorough investigation into all abductions have intensified. The community, both online and offline, is demanding accountability from those involved in these enforced disappearances. The government has yet to comment on the specifics of these cases, but pressure is mounting for them to act, especially after the recent High Court orders demanding the police produce several abductees in court.
