Renowned media personality, author, and human rights activist Janet Mbugua recently shared her unplanned involvement in the protests that erupted in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD). The philanthropic mother of two revealed that her participation in the protests, where many Kenyans donned sacks in a display of frustration and unity, was entirely spontaneous.
In a heartfelt post on social media, Janet explained how her intention that morning was to join a group of praying mothers seeking counsel and healing for the country, which she feels continues to suffer from human rights violations. However, she arrived early and, as the group hadn’t yet gathered, she found herself in the thick of the protests. “I sort of happened to be at the right place at the right time,” she noted.
As the protests unfolded, Janet bore witness to the police’s excessive use of force, unlawful arrests, and intimidation against peaceful demonstrators. In her video footage shared online, she captured these troubling scenes, condemning the authorities for their heavy-handed approach. She voiced her concern over police intolerance, calling it an alarming reminder of the government’s disregard for basic freedoms and human rights.
Janet also expressed her bittersweet emotions upon hearing about the release of young abductees, who had been missing for days following nationwide outcry. While she celebrated their safe return, she emphasized the sorrow of knowing their freedoms had been violated. Furthermore, she lamented the fact that many others remain missing, with their abductors still at large.
The activist concluded her post with a powerful call to action, urging Kenyans to remain vigilant and not allow themselves to be silenced. “We must amplify these critical conversations wherever and whenever we can,” she wrote, continuing her fight for justice, democracy, and human rights.
Janet’s participation in the protests highlights her unwavering commitment to standing up for social issues and fighting against injustices in Kenya. Through her impromptu actions, she has once again shown her dedication to bringing attention to critical national concerns.
