Two Kenyan human rights activists, Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, are reported to have been abducted in Uganda while supporting opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, in his political campaigns. The alleged abduction took place on Wednesday afternoon in Kamuli District, eastern Uganda, sparking outrage among rights groups and concern from Kenyan civil society.
Witnesses say the two activists were traveling with Bobi Wine’s campaign team in rural areas when they stopped at a petrol station to repair their vehicle. A gray van reportedly arrived at the scene, from which four armed men and a woman emerged. The assailants allegedly confronted Njagi and Oyoo, overpowered them, and bundled them into the van before driving away. Their mobile phones were later switched off, effectively cutting off communication. A companion who was with them at the time said he was ordered to lock his vehicle and was then released as the abductors sped away with the two Kenyans.
The two activists had left Kenya earlier in the week with two Ugandan associates who later returned, leaving Njagi and Oyoo to continue the campaign activities. Videos circulated online show Njagi actively participating in campaign events alongside Bobi Wine, addressing supporters, and moving through villages. Their involvement underscores growing links between Kenyan and Ugandan activists who have increasingly collaborated in pushing for democratic reforms in the region.
The Free Kenya Movement, where Njagi serves as chairman and Oyoo as secretary general, has condemned the abduction, calling it a politically motivated act. In a statement, national coordinator Felix Wambua said the disappearance of the two activists highlights the risks faced by individuals who engage in cross-border political activism. He urged Ugandan authorities to release the pair immediately and called on the Kenyan government to use diplomatic channels to demand answers.
“This incident is not isolated,” Wambua noted, referring to Njagi’s history of politically linked abductions. Last year, Njagi was allegedly kidnapped in Kenya alongside two activists, the Longton brothers, during protests against government policies. They were held incommunicado for more than a month before being released. “It is clear that Njagi and Oyoo are being targeted for their activism, and we will not be silent until they are returned safely,” he added.
Ugandan authorities, however, have distanced themselves from the matter. Police spokesperson Fred Enanga told local media that there is no official record of the two Kenyans being arrested. He advised that concerned parties, including the Kenyan High Commission in Kampala, should pursue inquiries through official diplomatic channels. The statement has done little to calm fears, as their whereabouts remain unknown.
The case has also triggered concerns of potential diplomatic strain between Nairobi and Kampala. Kenya and Uganda maintain close political and economic ties, but rights groups warn that incidents such as these could undermine regional cooperation if left unresolved. Analysts note that the abduction comes at a sensitive time, as Uganda’s opposition intensifies its campaigns ahead of future elections, while Kenyan activists remain vocal about democracy and human rights issues across the border.
Human rights organizations have also weighed in, warning that the abduction, if confirmed, would be a violation of international human rights protections and an attempt to intimidate activists who work to promote accountability. They called on both governments to act swiftly, stressing that protecting activists is essential for safeguarding democracy in East Africa.
As of Thursday evening, the fate of Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo remains unclear. Their disappearance has heightened fears among activists and supporters, who are demanding transparency, accountability, and urgent intervention. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether pressure from civil society, rights groups, and diplomatic channels can secure their safe release and prevent further escalation of tensions between Kenya and Uganda.
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