The Linda Mwananchi Movement has condemned the alleged abduction of Tanzanian opposition activist Twaha Mwaipaya in Kamulu, Machakos County, calling on Kenyan authorities to establish his whereabouts and guarantee his safety.
In a statement issued in Nairobi on Monday, October 26, 2026, the movement said Mwaipaya was allegedly seized while travelling in a taxi by individuals using three vehicles.
Citing Amnesty International, the movement demanded that authorities disclose where the activist is being held and protect him against any possible forced removal from Kenya.
“We demand that the Kenyan authorities disclose his whereabouts, ensure his safety and protect him from any forced removal from Kenya,” the statement read.
The movement warned that the incident adds to a worrying pattern of alleged abductions targeting opposition figures and human rights defenders from neighbouring countries while in Kenya.
It cited the November 2024 abduction of Ugandan opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye in Nairobi, who was subsequently taken to Uganda, where he appeared before a military court and remained in detention amid concerns over his health and detention conditions.
The statement also referenced the January 2025 abduction of Tanzanian activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai by armed men in Nairobi. According to the movement, Sarungi was released hours later following public outrage and intervention by human rights defenders.
“Now comes the abduction of Twaha Mwaipaya,” the statement added.
The movement accused President William Ruto’s administration of undermining Kenya’s reputation as a refuge for people fleeing persecution in the region.
“Under Ruto’s watch, Kenya is being turned into a hunting ground for those who wish to silence dissent beyond their own borders,” the movement said.
It described the alleged incident as a betrayal of Kenya’s democratic values and regional solidarity, arguing that the country should remain a safe haven for individuals facing political persecution.
The movement further warned that the alleged targeting of foreign dissidents could threaten freedoms and democratic principles that Kenyans have fought to protect.
Calls for Investigation
The Linda Mwananchi Movement demanded the immediate disclosure of Mwaipaya’s whereabouts, an independent investigation into the alleged abduction and accountability for everyone involved, regardless of their office or nationality.
It urged Kenyan authorities to uphold the rule of law and ensure that the country does not become a place where individuals fleeing repression are tracked down and returned to those they fear.
“Kenya must remain the last man standing in defence of democracy, human rights and the rule of law in this region,” the statement said.
The movement maintained that Kenya should continue serving as a regional beacon of freedom and a place of refuge for people seeking protection from persecution.
