Kenyan police forcibly detained dozens of demonstrators and a senator on Monday, using tear gas to disperse peaceful rallies in Nairobi. The protests were sparked by growing anger over a series of alleged abductions targeting young activists critical of President William Ruto’s government.
Since youth-led anti-government demonstrations erupted in June and July, security forces have faced accusations of carrying out illegal detentions, with rights groups dismissing police denials and demanding accountability.
The recent disappearances primarily involve vocal young critics of the government on social media. During the rally, protesters held up photos of missing individuals, demanding their immediate release and an end to the alleged abductions.
“What we are demanding is for the young people who have been abducted to be released,” said Nerima Wako of the youth empowerment group Siasa Place.
