Digital cartoonist Gideon Kibet, popularly known as Kibet Bull, has called on the government to either respect the freedom of speech or enforce the rule of law when addressing critics. This comes after Kibet endured a harrowing 13-day abduction, which ended with his release on January 6, 2025. His ordeal has reignited public discourse on freedom of expression and the worrying trend of abductions in Kenya.
A Viral Voice Silenced
Kibet gained fame for his caricatured silhouettes of President William Ruto, which frequently went viral on social media platforms. However, his outspoken creativity made him a target. He was abducted on December 24, 2024, in Nairobi and was only released in Luanda, Vihiga County, early Monday morning.
Speaking to NTV after his release, Kibet described his challenging journey back home. “At around 3 or 4 am, I found myself about 5 kilometers from Luanda. I found a place to stay for my safety,” he recounted.
While Kibet chose to keep details of his captivity vague, he emphasized the need for the government to stop using abductions to suppress dissent. “Abduction is real,” he said. “The government should either allow freedom of speech or use the rule of law to prosecute those they believe are at fault.”
Public Outcry Over Abductions
Kibet’s ordeal is not an isolated case. His release marked the fifth recent incident of missing individuals reappearing under mysterious circumstances in different parts of the country. Among them were Kibet’s brother, Ronny Kiplangat, and other abductees—Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, and Bernard Kavuli.
Kiplangat was found in Machakos County, while Kavuli, abducted in Ngong, was discovered in Kitale. These cases have raised alarm among Kenyans, prompting demands for accountability and action from President Ruto and law enforcement.
The National Police Service (NPS) has been under intense scrutiny, with many Kenyans accusing the police of involvement in these abductions. However, the NPS denied any involvement, stating that no officers were linked to the incidents.
Government Response
In response to the public uproar, President Ruto distanced himself from the abductions and demanded a comprehensive report from the Inspector General of Police and the NPS. This move, however, has done little to assuage public fears or quell the growing dissatisfaction with how the government handles critics.
Human rights organizations have also weighed in, urging the government to uphold constitutional freedoms and provide a safe environment for all citizens.
Kibet’s Cautionary Return
Kibet has announced his intention to tone down his social media activity as he recovers from the traumatic experience. After his release, he posted on his X account, sharing his peculiar post-abduction experience, including attending a local “disco matanga” (an overnight funeral dance) in Luanda before securing a bus ticket home.
Despite his cautious return to normalcy, Kibet remains adamant that the government must change its approach. “Freedom of speech is a constitutional right,” he reiterated. “The state should use legal mechanisms to address criticism, not intimidation or abduction.”
A Call for Justice
The wave of abductions has left many Kenyans questioning the state of civil liberties in the country. With trust in government institutions waning, public pressure continues to mount for immediate and transparent investigations.
Kibet’s story is a stark reminder of the fragility of free expression in Kenya and a call for the government to address dissent through lawful means, fostering a culture of accountability and respect for human rights.
