NAIROBI, Kenya — Blogger Ndiang’ui Kinyagia, who was reported missing last week, has contacted his family and confirmed he is alive and in good health, according to a statement issued Thursday by his lawyer, Wahome Thuku.
Kinyagia, who had been out of reach for several days, reportedly made contact with a family member on Tuesday evening from an undisclosed location.
He told them he had gone into hiding for fear of his life after learning that officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) were pursuing him over unspecified allegations.
“Mr. Ndiang’ui indicated to the family member that he had hidden temporarily for fear of his life upon learning that DCI officers were looking for him over unknown criminal allegations,” Thuku said.
The blogger has expressed willingness to present himself to the DCI and appear before a court, but only once his safety is assured.
“He is ready and willing to present himself to the DCI and to be presented before any court of law when his safety and security is guaranteed,” the lawyer added.
According to the family, Kinyagia is expected to present himself before the High Court at Milimani Law Courts at 11 a.m. today.
The Law Society of Kenya has been notified and is expected to be involved in the legal proceedings.
Thuku also recalled that during Kinyagia’s disappearance, DCI officers allegedly broke into his home in his absence and confiscated several items. The incident was reported at Kinoo Police Station.
“We wish to remind the public that the DCI broke into his house in his absence and carried away several items,” said Thuku.
The family thanked members of the public and the Kenyan diaspora for their support and urged that justice be allowed to take its course.
“It is our hope and prayer that justice will prevail in this matter,” the statement concluded.
