Nairobi, Kenya – June 30, 2025
The High Court has formally summoned Kenya’s Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome and Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Director Mohamed Amin to respond to the sudden and troubling disappearance of activist Ndiangui Kinyangia.
Kinyangia, a vocal youth rights advocate and regular participant in anti-government protests, was reportedly abducted by unknown individuals in Kinoo, Kiambu County, on the night of June 21. Witnesses say he was taken by men believed to be plainclothes officers in an unmarked vehicle. His whereabouts remain unknown more than a week later.
Court Steps In
The High Court issued the summons on Monday morning following an urgent petition filed by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and Kinyangia’s family. The petition argues that the state has failed to protect the constitutional rights of the activist, including the right to life, liberty, and protection from enforced disappearance.
Justice Lydiah Achode directed the two top police chiefs to personally appear before the court this week and provide concrete answers on whether Kinyangia was arrested by state agencies — and if so, under what authority and conditions.
“The continued silence of the security apparatus only fuels public suspicion and erodes trust,” said Justice Achode in her ruling. “This court will not allow impunity to fester under the guise of national security.”
Rising Concerns Amid Protest Crackdown
Kinyangia’s disappearance has sent shockwaves through civil society, with many seeing it as part of a disturbing trend of intimidation and targeted abductions of protest leaders. His case comes at a time of widespread demonstrations led by Gen Z youth demanding government accountability and justice.
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty Kenya and the Kenya Human Rights Commission, have condemned the incident and called for an independent investigation.
“This is an enforced disappearance — a gross violation of human rights,” said KHRC Executive Director Davis Malombe. “We are seeing a reversion to the dark days of state terror, where dissent is criminalized and critics vanish without trace.”
A Symbol of a Bigger Fight
Kinyangia, in his early 30s, has been a prominent face in recent protests, often seen rallying youth on civic responsibility and governance reforms. He is also known for his community organizing work in low-income areas of Nairobi and Kiambu.
On social media, the hashtag #WhereIsKinyangia has been trending, with Kenyans demanding his safe return and an end to enforced disappearances.
As the court presses for answers, the country watches closely. For many, the case of Ndiangui Kinyangia has become more than just a disappearance — it has become a litmus test for Kenya’s democratic integrity and respect for the rule of law.
