Family Pleads for Release of Kenyan Activist Allegedly Held by Ugandan Military

 

By Phanice Rono 

Three weeks after the disappearance of Kenyan activists Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, the family of Njagi is pleading for his release following reports that he is allegedly being detained by the Ugandan military.

The family says they have received credible information that Njagi is alive and in the custody of Ugandan authorities, days after his disappearance sparked widespread concern among human rights groups.

Speaking to reporters, Njagi’s father, Frank Njagi, said the family had established that his son was being held in Uganda, though conflicting reports about his condition had caused them deep anxiety.

“We have established that he is alive despite what others are saying. We know he’s alive and that he’s with the Ugandan army,” he said.

Frank expressed concern over the cross-border nature of the case, describing it as emotionally draining for the family because the situation is beyond the direct control of Kenyan authorities.

“This one has hit me the hardest because when he was in Kenya, we knew Kenyan authorities were in control. In this case, we don’t know how much authority the Kenyan government has over the Ugandan government. It’s more complicated than when he was in Kenya,” he said.

He appealed to both governments to handle the matter diplomatically and urged the public to remain calm as efforts to secure Njagi’s release continue.

“We request help from the government and anyone else who can assist without antagonizing the Ugandan government, because we believe antagonism does not help,” he added.

Njagi’s mother, Isabella Njagi, called for unity and faith as the family awaits news about their son’s fate.

“I believe that God is with all of us… He is with Kenya, with Uganda, and even with President Museveni. We are relying on prayer,” she said.

Human rights defenders have demanded answers, saying Njagi’s disappearance mirrors earlier cases of activists allegedly abducted during cross-border operations.