East African Law Society Blasts Rise in Abductions Across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania
Nairobi/Kampala
The East African Law Society (EALS) has issued a stern rebuke to member states Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania over a growing number of abductions, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings. In a public statement, EALS called the trend deeply troubling, particularly because many of the victims are political activists, dissidents, and journalists.
According to the EALS, over 80 abduction cases occurred in Kenya alone between June 2024 and 2025, often linked to protest movements and civic activism. The society is demanding member nations establish independent oversight bodies to investigate the abuses and called for reforms within security services to protect human rights.
Why It Matters:
These actions pose a serious threat to democracy, civic space, and rule of law in the EAC region.
Abductions and disappearances undermine trust in governments and could destabilize political landscapes.
The demand for oversight reflects growing regional pressure for reforms and accountability.
What to Watch For:
Whether EAC governments respond with policy or judicial reforms to address these human rights concerns.
The formation or empowerment of regional mechanisms to independently monitor and report abuses.
Civil society and international pressure – will development partners condition aid or engagement on human rights improvements?
