NAIROBI, Kenya — Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has cautioned Kenyan activists and human rights defenders against engaging in political activities within neighbouring countries, warning that such actions could lead to cross-border tensions and potential disappearances.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the senator urged Kenyans “especially busy-body activists” to steer clear of internal political matters in nations such as Uganda and Tanzania, both of which are heading toward general elections in the coming months.
“I want to urge Kenyans, especially busy-body activists, to avoid going to friendly neighbouring countries and start to meddle in their internal local politics,” Cherargei wrote.
“This will reduce cross-border abductions and enforced disappearances because other countries have different ways of handling internal dissidents. It isn’t like Kenya where it’s free for all.”
The senator added that Kenyans visiting neighbouring nations should restrict their travels to tourism, education, medical, or business purposes, warning that interfering with political or human rights issues could provoke unintended diplomatic consequences.
“Kenyans should only visit these countries for tourism, education, medical and business while keeping off internal politics and human rights,” he said.
Cherargei’s remarks come against the backdrop of growing public concern over the disappearance of two Kenyan activists, Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, who went missing in Uganda on October 1.
Ugandan authorities have denied holding them, and a Kampala court recently dismissed a habeas corpus petition seeking their release, declaring them missing persons.
Kenyan civil society groups, including Vocal Africa and the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), have accused Uganda’s security forces of abduction and cross-border repression, urging the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take diplomatic action.
The issue has reignited debate on regional human rights cooperation and the protection of activists working across East Africa, with some accusing Nairobi of “passive diplomacy” in the face of increasing violations.
Both Tanzania and Uganda are preparing for general elections, a period often marked by tight security, restrictions on protests, and scrutiny of foreign activists.
Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, in power since 1986, has faced domestic opposition and international criticism over alleged human rights abuses. In Tanzania, tensions are similarly high as the ruling party consolidates its position ahead of national polls.
Cherargei’s warning also echoes the 2021 Boniface Mwangi incident, where the prominent Kenyan activist accused Tanzanian authorities of detaining and questioning him over alleged political interference.
Mwangi was later released, but the case drew attention to the risks faced by activists operating across East African borders.
Analysts say Cherargei’s remarks reflect growing unease within political circles about activists’ involvement in regional causes that may strain diplomatic ties.
While some have supported his call for caution, others have criticised it as an attempt to silence legitimate advocacy for human rights and democracy in the region.
Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has yet to issue a formal statement on Cherargei’s remarks or the disappearance of Njagi and Oyoo. However, pressure continues to mount on Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei to engage Kampala and secure the activists’ safe return.
As Uganda and Tanzania approach election season, human rights observers warn that tensions between governments and activists may intensify — testing the limits of regional cooperation and Kenya’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.
