Former Chief Justice David Maraga has warned that Kenya’s reputation as a safe haven for dissidents, refugees and pro-democracy campaigners is under threat amid concerns over alleged cross-border abductions.
In a statement posted on X, Maraga said Nairobi had for years provided refuge to people fleeing political repression and conflict but argued that the situation was changing.
“Kenya is increasingly becoming the abductors’ paradise and East African centre for transnational repression,” he said.
Maraga attributed the trend to alleged cooperation between security agencies of different countries, warning that such actions were undermining Kenya’s reputation as a refuge for democracy and human rights advocates.
He cited the abduction of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye and the reported abduction of Tanzanian activist Twaha Mwaipaya as examples of alleged state-sponsored cross-border operations.
Maraga called for an end to the incidents and urged efforts to restore Kenya’s standing as a safe place for democracy and human rights campaigners.
“We must restore Kenya’s image and previously sparkling reputation as a safe community for democracy and human rights advocates,” he said.
