Missing Kenyan Activists Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo Freed

Activists Bob Njagi and Oyoo have been released by the Ugandan authorities to the custody of the Kenyan Embassy Human rights groups in Kenya say two activists who disappeared in neighbouring Uganda five weeks ago have turned up alive and well. The release was facilitated in coordination with local authorities and humanitarian organizations. At approximately 1:00 AM, the two individuals were received by Busia County Commissioners upon their arrival at the border. They later recorded statements before being transported to Kisumu, where arrangements are underway to secure a flight to Nairobi. Both activists were reported to be in stable health, though visibly emancipated. The duo also contacted their families to assure them of their safety through Vocal Africa and Amnesty International, who were instrumental in advocating for their release and safeguarding their well-being throughout the ordeal. Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo are free and on Kenyan territory. Late last night, after lengthy engagements, the two were released to our High Commissioner in Uganda, Joash Maangi," he posted on X. "They were escorted by the Ambassador and officials of the Uganda government to Busia border town and were received by Busia County Commissioner, Chaunga Mwachaunga. Deeply grateful for the efforts by different actors who made this outcome possible. We shall be releasing a more detailed account later." On Saturday, activist organisation Vocal Africa confirmed the men were safe, and being transported from Busia in Uganda to Kenya's capital, Nairobi. "Let this moment signal an important shift towards upholding the human rights of East Africans anywhere in East African Community," the organisation wrote on its Instagram page. Eyewitnesses reported seeing Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo being forced into a car by masked uniformed men after a political event where they were supporting the Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine. Former pop star Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, is running for the presidency in next year's elections, challenging President Yoweri Museveni, 80, who has held power since 1986. Wine accused the Ugandan government of targeting the two Kenyans for associating with him. Ugandan security agencies have often been accused of orchestrating the detention of opposition politicians and supporters while not in uniform. Some of those arrested have later resurfaced in court facing criminal charges.