Teargas Deployed in Nairobi as Protesters Rally Against Alleged Abductions of Government Critics

Kenyan police in Nairobi fired teargas on Monday to disperse demonstrators protesting what they allege to be a surge in unexplained abductions of government critics. The protests, marked by sit-ins and marches, also saw several participants detained, including opposition lawmaker Okiya Omtatah.

Human rights groups have reported dozens of abductions in recent months, attributing these incidents to Kenya's police and intelligence services. The authorities, however, deny any involvement in extrajudicial actions, maintaining that such practices are not condoned by the government.

In downtown Nairobi, young protesters marched through the streets while others held sit-ins despite the presence of riot police. Protesters chanted anti-government slogans and displayed placards condemning illegal detentions. Teargas clouds filled the air as police on horseback patrolled nearby, attempting to control the unrest.

Omtatah, a prominent opposition figure, joined demonstrators in a sit-in where participants used thick chains to bind themselves together. Police reportedly detained Omtatah and 10 others during the protest, according to Kenya's Daily Nation. Efforts to obtain comments from Nairobi police commander Adamson Bungei and national police spokesperson Rosalia Onyango were unsuccessful.

The protests are part of a larger wave of anti-government demonstrations that began in June, initially sparked by opposition to proposed tax increases. Over time, the movement has evolved into a significant challenge to President William Ruto's administration, uniting diverse groups across Kenya's traditional ethnic divisions.

While the government denies involvement in the alleged abductions, the demonstrations underscore growing discontent among segments of the population and intensify scrutiny of Kenya's law enforcement practices.