Police Disperse Nairobi CBD Protest Over Continued Detention of Kizza Besigye

Kampala, Uganda – Police in Kenya cracked down on a demonstration in the city’s Central Business District on Monday, seeking the release of detained Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye. Activists gathered to demand Besigye’s release and an independent investigation into his transfer from Kenya to Uganda in November 2024, as well as questioning the government over his missing from Nairobi at the time.

Several protesters were apprehended by officers, who moved to disperse the protest. Among those arrested were Julius Kamau and Collins Otieno, according to reports from the demonstration.

The protesters called for answers regarding Besigye’s disappearance and alleged that Kenyan security officers may have played a role in his alleged transfer. Besigye, a prominent Ugandan opposition politician, disappeared from Nairobi in November 2024 before reappearing in Uganda several days later. He has faced treason-related charges in Uganda, with the circumstances surrounding his transfer from Kenya remaining controversial.

Reports suggest that Kenyan police allegedly prepared an apartment and planted weapons and counterfeit currency as part of an alleged intelligence operation. These allegations have not been confirmed as court findings.

The activists’ demands extend beyond Besigye’s case, highlighting broader concerns about legal processes and the protection of individuals within the East African Community. The protest comes amid growing concern over police handling of demonstrations in Nairobi. Last week, the High Court found Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja in contempt for erecting roadblocks during June 25 commemorations without issuing a required public advisory. Kanja is scheduled to appear in court on September 22 for mitigation and sentencing.