Prominent Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi has claimed he narrowly escaped an abduction attempt by individuals he suspects to be officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
The incident, which Mwangi described on his social media account, came just hours after he revealed a week-long schedule for demonstrations against the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
“I just survived a possible kidnapping attempt by DCI officers. Anyone who stands between the will of the people shall fail. I’m going to be offline. Continue with the struggle!”
Mwangi posted on his official X account.
The vocal activist announced he would be turning off his phones and withdrawing from social media for the time being to ensure his safety.
Mwangi’s announcement of the anti-Finance Bill protests outlined a series of activities beginning today and continuing through next Thursday, June 27, 2024.
On the first day, supporters were set to gather at the City Mortuary to honor Rex Kanyeki Masai, a protester who was allegedly killed by police on Thursday evening.
This was to be followed by participation in Juma prayers at Jamia Mosque, where protesters planned to distribute water to attendees.
The protest plans for Saturday, June 22, involve Gen Z activists congregating at popular nightclubs, where they will pause the music to chant slogans against President William Ruto and the Finance Bill 2024.
Mwangi, who has been a key figure in mobilizing opposition to the new tax measures, was among five activists detained earlier this week near Parliament during the inaugural Occupy Parliament protests.
They were released after prosecutors found insufficient evidence to charge them with unlawful assembly.
Despite threats and alleged police violence, including the fatal shooting of protester Rex Kanyeki Masai, Mwangi remains resolute. He vowed to continue the demonstrations, culminating in a march to State House on June 27.
“We refuse to be silenced, so we are marching on,” Mwangi declared, reaffirming his commitment to opposing the Finance Bill, which he claims is being unjustly forced upon the people by the government.
