Abductions highlight growing conflict between freedom of expression and state authority

Many Kenyans have lately been wondering whether their country is diplomatic or not. The upsurge in abduction cases that have become the new norm has continued to send shivers to Kenyans. It is as if we are taking a backslide from the norms that were already forgotten in our republic.

Recently, Kenya has witnessed a rise in cases of enforced disappearances. Is it not heart-wrenching not to see your loved ones for days without knowing their fate? The question is not rhetoric anymore because the pain of families being robbed of their loved ones is ours to bear too.

A report by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) released in June 2024 shows that 82 individuals – and counting – have disappeared.

Let me draw your attention to last week's cases of abductions and enforced disappearances.

In Nairobi, Kibet Bull, a renowned keyboard warrior and a prominent social media influencer known for his critical stance against government policies, was reportedly abducted on December 15, 2024.

Witnesses say he was taken by unknown assailants outside his apartment, leaving his family distraught and desperate for answers. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has denied any involvement in the abduction of Kibet Bull.

Similarly, in Embu County, 25-year-old Billy Wanyiri Mwangi was allegedly taken on December 17, 2024. He had reportedly shared AI-generated images of President William Ruto online, which some found offensive.

Eyewitnesses describe the chilling scene in which four hooded men, armed and determined, dragged him out of a barbershop.

Families of the abducted Kenyans face a cruel reality. Imagine going into the festivities without knowing about your loved one. In many instances, authorities dismiss their concerns, often suggesting that their loved ones may have "gone underground" or were involved in dubious activities.

Take a case where you are wounded and seeking help and instead of your aiders helping you, they come bearing a bag of salt to add to your wound. This is exactly the level of cruel nature the authorities are displaying.

The abductions have shed light on the growing tension between freedom of expression and state authority.

AI-generated content, like images shared by Billy Mwangi, is increasingly becoming the new norm on social media. While the use of such technology raises ethical questions, the abductions send a chilling message.

Social media platforms have become rallying points for justice, with hashtags like #BringKibetBack and #FindBillyMwangi gaining traction. However, public outcry often meets a wall of silence from the authorities, who appear more intent on denial than resolution.

So, what if I post AI-generated images of our president under compromising circumstances? Does this qualify to be an act of treason to the point of being taken away from my loved ones?

Authorities' tone-deaf approach in addressing such incidents only serves to exacerbate the public’s mistrust and fuel a culture of fear. Instead of silencing dissent through covert actions, we must confront the issues with dialogue and accountability.

As we approach the new year, we must each reflect on how we can better prevent these acts of terror.

The abductions not only rob families of their loved ones but also erode the trust in institutions meant to protect us. If action is not taken, we are looking at a spree of abductions that will one day lead to war against public institutions.

When the streets we walk on turn into scenes of fear, and the voices we raise become grounds for disappearance, who will safeguard freedom?

I believe in our country’s potential. Kibet and Billy’s stories are our stories; their pain is our pain. It's time to speak out against the silent epidemic in Kenya.

We deserve better.