NAIROBI, Kenya- In a chilling continuation of abductions targeting government critics and foreigners fleeing oppressive regimes, the abduction of Tanzanian journalist and human rights defender Maria Sarungi Tsehai in Nairobi has ignited global outrage.
Tsehai, an independent media editor, was abducted in broad daylight from the Kilimani area by armed men in a black Toyota Noah, an incident that has sent shockwaves through the international community.
The brazen nature of the abduction—occurring at 3:15 PM outside Chaka Place—was witnessed by stunned onlookers.
According to eyewitnesses, a public service vehicle attempted to block the abductors’ car, and a woman’s desperate screams were heard pleading for intervention.
Despite the chaotic scene, the armed men succeeded in whisking Tsehai away, underscoring a worrying trend in Kenya’s security landscape.
This incident comes just weeks after a Ugandan opposition leader was abducted and handed over to authorities in Kampala, raising fears that Kenya is becoming a hotspot for cross-border political persecution.
President William Ruto, who had earlier pledged to put an end to such abductions, now faces mounting pressure as critics and allies alike call for decisive action.
“This is not looking good, Mr. President,” tweeted Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina. “Put an end to this madness.”
The abduction has drawn sharp criticism from international stakeholders. EU Ambassador Henriette Geiger expressed her alarm, stating, “This is concerning.”
Similarly, Stephen Jackson, the UN Resident Coordinator in Kenya, conveyed his distress, tweeting, “Very concerned at this report.”
The Law Society of Kenya and Amnesty International Kenya, which has been closely monitoring the situation, confirmed Tsehai’s abduction and subsequent release.
It was not however clear the circumstances that led to her release
“Maria Sarungi Tsehai was kidnapped by three armed men in a black Noah,” the organization said, sharing CCTV footage that captured two men believed to have been trailing her before the attack.
The footage, now circulating widely on social media, shows the two suspects in plainclothes.
Amnesty International has urged the public to come forward with any information that could help identify the perpetrators.
“Anyone with information on the identities of these two, please contact us,” the lobby group appealed.
Following hours of uncertainty, Tsehai was released and has since assured her supporters of her safety.
In a brief statement, she said, “I am now safe, many thanks to everyone, and I will talk more tomorrow. Nawapenda sana (I love you all very much).”
Her words, though reassuring, leave lingering questions about her ordeal and the motives behind her abduction.
She is a fierce critic of Tanzanian President Suluhu Hassan and is suspected to have been targeted by agents from her home country with the help of their Kenyan counterparts.
Tsehai’s work as a vocal critic of authoritarianism and a champion for press freedom has likely made her a target.
The incident, human rights defenders said highlights the dangers faced by journalists and activists who dare to speak truth to power, not just in Kenya but across East Africa.
President Ruto’s administration now finds itself under scrutiny as local and international actors demand accountability.
The President had promised to restore the rule of law and end the culture of enforced disappearances.
However, the continued abductions suggest systemic challenges in addressing this menace.
Human rights organizations argue that these incidents erode Kenya’s reputation as a sanctuary for dissidents fleeing repression in their home countries.
“Kenya has long been a refuge for those escaping persecution.
The abduction has sparked widespread anger among Kenyans, who are calling for an immediate investigation.
Social media platforms are awash with hashtags demanding justice for Tsehai and other victims of enforced disappearances.
The spotlight is also on Kenya’s security agencies, which have been accused of complicity in past abductions.
Critics point to a lack of transparency and accountability in how these cases are handled.
Just recently, several youths abducted in December last year were released and have since retreated to silence. They are said to have been subjected to both physical and mental torture.
Their crime was to criticize the government by posting AI images or silhouettes.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has condemned the incidents, which he links to an alleged autonomous abduction squad with offices in Nairobi’s CBD.
