In a harrowing tale of abduction and torture, lawyer Okayo has shared his traumatic experience following his participation in protests against the 2024 Finance Bill and various government malpractices. The abduction occurred shortly after Okayo had taken part in the demonstrations, leaving him deeply shaken and traumatized.
On June 25, Okayo joined friends in protests at the Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, voicing their opposition to the Finance Bill 2024 and decrying government corruption and the appointment of unqualified individuals to key positions. Despite warnings from a friend about the potential dangers of participating in the protests, including the risk of being shot, injured, or abducted, Okayo stood firm in his convictions.
The nightmare began later that evening when Okayo was taken from his rented residence in Olerai, Rongai, by individuals believed to be security officers. He was blindfolded, forced into a vehicle, and driven aimlessly while being incessantly interrogated about the protests. His abductors demanded information about the protests, including the financiers and the involvement of Kenya School of Law (KSL) students.
For a grueling 30 minutes, Okayo’s captors interrogated him, breaking their silence only to demand answers. Despite providing honest responses, the captors were dissatisfied and continued their harsh treatment. Okayo was transferred to another vehicle, where his ordeal intensified.
He was forced into the trunk of the car and driven around for hours before being placed in a dark room, still blindfolded and deprived of food and water. The torture was severe, with Okayo recounting how his captors beat his chest, legs, and ankles, strangled him, and demanded information he did not possess. “They beat my chest, legs, and ankles, strangled me, and demanded information I didn’t possess,” Okayo recounted, tears welling up as he spoke.
On the morning of June 28, Okayo’s ordeal finally ended when his captors threw him out of a moving vehicle near the Maragua River in Murang’a County. He rolled several times on the ground, too weak to move. Eventually, locals discovered him, attended to his injuries, and helped him contact his family.
Okayo’s experience highlights the growing dangers faced by activists and protesters in Kenya. His abduction and torture underscore the risks involved in standing up against government malpractices and corruption. Despite the trauma he endured, Okayo remains resolute in his fight for justice and transparency in government.
The abduction and subsequent torture of Okayo have sparked outrage among human rights organizations and the general public. Many are calling for an immediate investigation into the incident and demanding accountability from the authorities responsible. The incident also raises questions about the safety and security of citizens who exercise their democratic right to protest.
As Okayo recovers from his physical and emotional wounds, his story serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and human rights in Kenya. His courage and resilience in the face of such adversity inspire others to continue the fight for a fair and just society.
