Kenyan activists Nicholas Oyoo and Bob Njagi have been released after spending 38 days in detention in Uganda, following what sources describe as a direct intervention by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Digital strategist and political commentator Pauline Njoroge revealed that despite earlier government efforts, including diplomatic correspondence, no progress had been made until Kenyatta personally contacted General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, a top Ugandan military officer.
“It was this intervention that finally broke the deadlock, leading to the duo’s release and subsequent handover to Kenyan authorities,” said Njoroge.
The two activists were reportedly freed in Busia on the night of November 6, 2025, after being held incommunicado since October 1. Their disappearance had sparked widespread concern and calls for action from civil society groups and human rights organizations.
Amnesty International Kenya Executive Director Houghton Irungu commended the former President for his role, emphasizing that their freedom was also the result of “sustained pressure from ordinary citizens, journalists, and human rights defenders.”
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK), through its President Faith Odhiambo, celebrated the release, terming it a significant milestone for human rights defenders across East Africa.
“We welcome the release of Nicholas Oyoo and Bob Njagi after 38 days of enforced disappearance,” said Odhiambo, extending gratitude to families, the Free Kenya Movement, and ministries of foreign affairs in both Kenya and Tanzania.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi also welcomed the news, acknowledging the “joint diplomatic efforts” that facilitated the activists’ return.
The incident has reignited debate on the protection of East Africans’ rights, with many calling for stronger regional mechanisms to prevent similar abductions and detentions in the future.
