Kenya’s enforced disappearances: Davies Okombo warns of renewed abductions ahead of 2027 elections
Human rights activist Davies Okombo has warned of a possible resurgence of enforced disappearances in Kenya as the country approaches the 2027 General Election, raising concerns over state accountability, constitutionalism and the safety of citizens exercising their democratic rights. Okombo’s warning comes amid renewed scrutiny of reported abductions following the disappearance of lawyer Abshir…
Davies Okombo, a human rights activist in Kenya, has warned of a potential return of enforced disappearances in the country leading up to the 2027 General Election. The warning comes amidst increased scrutiny around reported abductions, including the case of lawyer Abshir Ahmedsadak Abdi, whose family has presented CCTV footage and photographs to courts attempting to locate him.
Okombo defines enforced disappearance as an arrest, detention, or abduction by state agents, or individuals under state authorization, followed by the denial of the victim's whereabouts. He emphasizes that such practice violates human rights, undermines constitutional protections, and erodes public trust in state institutions.
During an interview on a local TV station, Okombo pointed out that the 2024 Gen Z protests saw up to 82 people abducted, marking a defining moment in Kenya's recent history. He fears that these abductions may be used to intimidate dissent and prevent political participation, particularly ahead of the 2027 elections. Okombo cites a Kofi Annan Foundation assessment which suggests an 81.4 percent likelihood of electoral violence, indicating that political tensions and related demonstrations could increase the risk of further abductions.
The case of lawyer Abdi has brought enforced disappearances back into the spotlight. His brother, Zakaria Abshir, recently presented CCTV footage and photographs in court, claiming armed men abducted the lawyer in Nairobi on November 1, 2026. The family also submitted images allegedly depicting Abdi's arrest in October 2025 and subsequent interrogation by Counter Terrorism Bureau officers.
Lawyers and relatives have been pushing security agencies for answers, visiting the Supreme Court and Jogoo House to seek clarification from Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja. The High Court has approved a habeas corpus application to determine Abdi's whereabouts, with Justice Alexander Muteti acknowledging the state’s ability to investigate such cases, citing the handling of the kidnapping and murder of advocate Willie Kimani as an example.
Okombo's warning underscores the broader issue of whether democratic processes in Kenya can occur without resorting to intimidation, unlawful detention, or violations of fundamental rights. As political mobilization intensifies leading up to the 2027 elections, the credibility of security institutions will hinge on their ability to safeguard citizens, investigate abduction allegations, and provide transparent answers to affected families.
For Okombo, a comprehensive solution necessitates not only locating missing persons but also ensuring accountability and respect for constitutional principles.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
