‘The goal is clear: to silence those who demand accountability and cower others into submission’
CIVICUS discusses protests in Kenya with human rights defender Maxie Daniel.
For several weeks, protesters have taken to the streets of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, to demand the release of all those abducted after participating in anti-government demonstrations. The protest movement has steadily grown, drawing support from across society as families and communities seek justice and the safe return of their loved ones, while activists press the authorities for accountability and action on enforced disappearances.
Who is behind the abductions of protesters?
The increasing number of abductions is usually attributed to the government, as part of an effort to silence dissent at a time when leaders feel their authority is under threat. They are one of several tactics used to intimidate critics and stifle opposition. Public warnings by senior officials have only added to the climate of fear for those who dare to question their leadership.
The targets are usually human rights defenders, artists and others who challenge the status quo. The goal seems clear: to silence people who demand accountability and cower others into submission.
This has undermined trust in public institutions. Fear is so ingrained in Kenyan society that families and young people try to avoid any interaction with law enforcement and government institutions to protect themselves. At least 82 people have disappeared since protests began in June, including six in two weeks in December, and the ones who have been released have opted for a low profile and are not willing to share their experiences.
People see the police as either responsible for or complicit in the abductions, as most cases remain unsolved and victims don’t receive justice. The lack of accountability leaves communities feeling powerless and disillusioned with the system that is supposed to protect them.
What are the protesters’ demands?
Protests have become an important way of challenging the ongoing crisis, with protesters targeting the government, law enforcement and the judiciary. They are demanding transparent investigations into past and ongoing abductions, justice for the victims and accountability for those responsible.
Key demands include stronger legal protections for activists, journalists and other vulnerable groups, and the creation of an independent taskforce to impartially investigate these crimes. Protesters are also pushing for broader governance reforms and the establishment of robust oversight mechanisms to end the culture of impunity and prevent future violations.
Overall, the protests reflect deep frustration and a determined commitment to bring about real change.
How are civil society groups responding?
Grassroots initiatives have stepped up to raise awareness and protect people’s rights. Universities have become focal points for activism, while human rights organisations work tirelessly to educate people on how to protect themselves from arbitrary arrest. These movements are reclaiming spaces for free expression and providing much-needed support to those most at risk.
But these initiatives face serious challenges. Some grassroots groups have been infiltrated by people who claim to support their cause but exploit it for personal gain. Funding is also a major problem, leaving many organisations vulnerable to harassment and intimidation by both state and non-state elements. In addition, the lack of adequate legal protection for activists further exposes them to repression and limits the effectiveness of their work.
What’s needed to prevent further abductions and ensure justice for victims?
A multifaceted approach is needed to address this crisis. It is critical to strengthen oversight mechanisms through independent bodies to monitor law enforcement and investigate misconduct. We also need legal reforms to provide greater protection for whistleblowers, activists and journalists, while law enforcement personnel must be trained in human rights and accountability.
Investment in technology, such as surveillance and tracking systems, could help prevent abductions and improve investigations. Judicial reforms are equally important to ensure that perpetrators, regardless of status, are prosecuted and convicted in a timely manner. This is key to restoring public trust in the justice system.
International human rights organisations can also make a big difference by providing financial and technical support to grassroots groups, training local activists in advocacy, digital security and legal strategies and amplifying the voices of victims. They can also put pressure on the Kenyan government to take meaningful action on human rights, and help connect local movements with global networks to strengthen their efforts.