Cross‑Border Repression? Two Kenyan Activists Go Missing in Uganda
KAMPALA, Uganda
In a disturbing development with regional implications, two Kenyan human rights activists, Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, were reportedly abducted in Kampala while participating in activities connected with Bobi Wine’s presidential campaign. Their disappearance has sparked outcry from civil society, rights groups, and legal bodies in both Uganda and Kenya.
What Happened
The activists had traveled from Kenya to Uganda to support the National Unity Platform and join campaign events for opposition candidate Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine).
On October 1, 2025, witnesses say the pair stopped at a petrol station in Kireka, Kampala, to inspect or repair their vehicle. At around 3 PM, a grey van with armed men, some in police uniform and others in plainclothes, pulled up. Njagi and Oyoo were forcibly taken into the vehicle. The third person with them was briefly detained and later released.
Shortly after the incident, their mobile phones went offline, and their whereabouts remain unknown.
Reactions & Demands
Civil society & human rights groups: The Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Amnesty International Kenya, and Vocal Africa have jointly issued an open letter demanding that the Ugandan government disclose the activists’ location, guarantee their safety, and release them unconditionally.
Kenyan political response: Senator Samson Cherargei demanded that Uganda take responsibility and called for disciplinary measures. He accused the activists of “exporting bad manners” into Uganda — remarks that drew backlash and accusations of victim blaming.
Bobi Wine’s condemnation: The opposition leader decried the act as “rogue regime lawlessness” and demanded the unconditional release of Njagi and Oyoo, stating they were abducted simply for expressing solidarity with his campaign.
No official comment yet: As of this writing, Uganda’s security agencies and police have not publicly confirmed or explained the incident.
Interpretation & Significance
Transnational repression: Many observers see this as part of a pattern where authoritarian governments suppress dissidents not only within their borders but across neighboring states, especially in East Africa.
Political chilling effect: The abduction sends a chilling signal to activists, opposition supporters, and civil society who engage across borders, especially during election cycles.
Legal obligations & diplomatic pressure: Uganda is under pressure — domestically and internationally — to abide by human rights norms, protect civil liberties, cooperate with Kenyan authorities, and ensure accountability.
Risk to cross-border solidarity: The incident could deter cross-border activism and weaken networks of regional political support.
