Cherargei Urges Uganda to Punish Kenyan Activists Allegedly Abducted in Kampala
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has sparked controversy after calling on the Ugandan government to take strict action against Kenyan activists Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, who were reportedly abducted in Kampala.
In a statement issued on Thursday, September 2, Cherargei claimed that the two activists were “exporting bad behaviour” to Uganda and posed a threat to the country’s national security.
“Uganda Must Deal With Them,” Says Cherargei
According to Cherargei, Kenyan activists misuse the freedom they enjoy at home and should not expect the same treatment when they cross into other countries.
“Our activists should stop exporting bad manners to other countries because in Kenya they are allowed too much freedom,” he said.
“The Ugandan government must deal with anyone who tries to undermine or threaten their national security and integrity.”
He further warned that Njagi and Oyoo should have learned from past incidents, referring to the abduction of Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and others in Tanzania earlier this year.
How the Alleged Abduction Happened
Reports indicate that Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo were taken by unknown men on Wednesday, September 1, while heading to a scheduled meeting with Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine, who leads the National Unity Platform (NUP).
- They were allegedly seized at a petrol station in Kireka, Kampala, where they had stopped to repair their vehicle.
- Witnesses say they were forced into a van, and their phones were immediately switched off, making it impossible to trace them.
Bobi Wine Condemns Incident
Bobi Wine strongly criticised the abduction on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, calling it an attack on solidarity and democracy.
“We condemn the abduction of Kenyan activists Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo by armed operatives. They were picked up mafia-style and taken to an unknown location simply for standing with our cause,” he posted.
“We demand their immediate and unconditional release!”
Human Rights Groups Demand Action
Hussein Khalid, CEO of Vocal Africa, also urged the Ugandan authorities to ensure the quick release of the detained activists, warning that such actions violate regional cooperation and human rights principles.
Rising Regional Concern
The incident has triggered widespread debate across Kenya and Uganda, with some backing Cherargei’s stance, while others accuse him of endorsing state repression.
As concerns grow over the activists’ whereabouts and safety, pressure is mounting on the Ugandan government to clarify the situation — and on Kenyan authorities to intervene diplomatically.
