After 15 days of uncertainty and growing public concern, 22-year-old Peter Muteti and 24-year-old Billy Mwangi have been safely reunited with their families following their abduction by what is widely believed to be state operatives.
The two men were found on Monday, January 6, 2024, after being abducted on December 21, 2024.
Their release comes amidst an escalating climate of political unrest in Kenya, where activists have been demanding the freedom of individuals who have been forcibly disappeared, due to their perceived opposition to President William Ruto’s government.
CNN journalist Larry Madowo confirmed the safe return of Peter Muteti to his family, sharing the news with his followers on social media.
“Peter Muteti released this morning, his family confirms. He was abducted on 21st December at his apartment outside Nairobi. ‘Hey Larry, Peter has been released. He is currently with family. He is quite disoriented and not able to talk and give interviews at the moment,’” Madowo wrote on X.
Separately, activist Hanifa shared the news of Billy Mwangi’s release, urging authorities to free other detainees.
“Billy Mwangi has been freed!!!! Now releases the rest!!!!” she wrote on X.
In a powerful image that quickly circulated online, Billy Mwangi was seen being embraced by his mother, evoking deep emotions from supporters of human rights and anti-abduction activists across the country.
The duo’s return coincided with the scheduled anti-abduction protests, which were expected to take place across the country on Monday, January 6, 2024.
Activists are calling for the release of those who have been detained in recent months for their criticism of the government and political dissent.
A dark period for activists
Mwangi and Muteti’s abductions are part of a troubling pattern that has seen many young Kenyans, particularly from the Gen-Z demographic, disappear in recent months.
Since the beginning of Gen Z protests in June 2024, at least 82 people are believed to have gone missing at the hands of what is believed to be government agents.
On December 30, 2024, activists organized a protest demanding the release of six individuals who were abducted in quick succession, including Muteti and Mwangi.
The demonstration turned violent as police responded with tear gas and arrested several protesters, including Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, who was later released.
Despite the release of Mwangi and Muteti, the protests are expected to continue as the families of the disappeared and human rights groups call on the government to end the abductions and bring the responsible parties to justice.
The human cost of these abductions remains significant, with many victims experiencing trauma after their disappearances.
Peter Muteti, who was found with signs of disorientation, and the heartwarming reunion of Billy Mwangi with his mother serve as poignant reminders of the personal toll taken by ongoing political turmoil.
As activists vow to continue their demonstrations until every abductee is released, the spotlight remains on President Ruto’s administration and its treatment of dissenters in an increasingly polarized nation.
