NAIROBI, Kenya — After two weeks of anguished waiting, cartoonist and activist Kibet Bull, widely known by his pen name Yoko, has been found alive.
His release follows a chilling pattern of abductions targeting outspoken critics of President William Ruto’s administration.
Kibet was abducted shortly after leaving the office of Senator Okiya Omtatah in Nairobi, plunging his family, friends, and supporters into a frantic search for answers.
On Monday evening, human rights activist Hussein Khalid confirmed the family had received word of his release.
A tweet from Kibet’s account on X alleged that he was dropped in Luanda Constituency, Vihiga County, at approximately 3 a.m., two weeks after his disappearance.
A Troubling Pattern of Abductions
Kibet’s release coincides with that of four other victims, all abducted in a similar manner by armed men and later abandoned far from their original locations.
Reports indicate that these individuals were provided with minimal transport money after their release.
The exact details of Kibet’s ordeal remain unclear, as none of the victims have yet spoken to the media.
However, harrowing accounts suggest they were held in pitch-dark rooms and subjected to various forms of physical and psychological torture.
Kibet’s abduction is believed to be linked to his role in creating powerful silhouettes that critiqued the government’s failure to deliver on key promises.
Through his art, he has become a thorn in the side of the administration, using humor and satire to expose inconsistencies and hold leaders accountable.
An Attack on Free Expression
The abduction of Kibet and others has intensified fears about the state of freedom of expression and democracy in Kenya.
Critics have pointed to a worrying trend of targeting dissenting voices, especially those who challenge the government’s policies and narratives.
Human rights organizations have condemned the abductions, demanding transparency, accountability, and an end to such oppressive tactics.
Public outcry has reached a fever pitch, with citizens and activists flooding social media with the hashtag #EndAbductionsKE.
The targeting of artists, activists, and other vocal critics has struck a nerve, sparking nationwide protests and international condemnation.
Police in a statement said that they would offer support to those who have been abducted.
It remains a mystery under whose command the abduction squad is operating from.
“We wish to assure the public that our officer will reach out to them and their families and gave them all the necessary support as we seek further information to assist ongoing investigations,” Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja said in a statement.
Other victims of abductions released include Bernard Kavuli, Peter Muteti and Rony Kiplagat- who is a brother to Kibet.
Kiplagat has no social media presence and is not even a government critic.
