Activist Kasmuel McOure alias Kaskazini has reappeared in Nairobi merely hours after being freed from the clutches of his abductors.
Kaskazini, who was forcibly taken by unknown men on June 25, 2024, was spotted outside the Nation Center in Nairobi CBD on Thursday, June 27, 2024.
In a video shared on social media, the activist was seen speaking to journalists but his speech was cut short after a tear gas canister was lobbied at him.
For almost 36 hours, Kaskazini’s disappearance sparked a wave of concern and outrage within the online community and fellow Gen Zs.
Kaskazini speaks
Further, Kaskazini shared a message on his X account on June 27, 2024, asking his followers to understand the cause behind his bravery instead of congratulating him.
“To anyone congratulating me for my bravery, there is nothing brave about me. It’s actually foolish of me to go out there. I’m just afraid that if we do nothing, we’re still gonna die. I am scared and scared! We do it afraid though. For our beloved motherland. For our Country,” Kaskazini remarked.
The renowned Maranda alumni, known for his unwavering dedication to social justice causes, was seized by unknown men, leading to a period of uncertainty and apprehension among his supporters and allies.
In a show of solidarity, fellow alumni and activists rallied together, urging Inspector General of Police Koome to swiftly facilitate Kaskazini’s release.
“Maranda High School Alumni Association is deeply saddened by the abduction of Kasmuel McOure by persons believed to be members of the security agencies. The unlawful act took place on the evening of Tuesday, 25, 2024, at the height of the nationwide anti-Finance Bill 2024 protests.
“Kasmuel is known for his public stance against the punitive Finance Bill and his subsequent active participation in the peaceful, unarmed protests,” the statement read in part.
Are we OFFICIALLY a POLICE STATE? All these protesters are armed with are their VOICES and ROSES!!!
(Funny thing, the military guys are more chilled than the police! Unless they’re decoys?)#RutoMustGo pic.twitter.com/10ceQNYS8i
— Kasmuel McOure (@_KasKazini) June 27, 2024
Release of activists
In the hours leading up to Kaskazini’s release, civil society groups took action, claiming that the president was regressing on his promise not to use the police against dissenters.
On Tuesday, June 25, 2024, tips on kidnappings and abductions were rampant, and top social media users who promoted the protest were targeted.
The raid drew condemnation from criminal justice sector actors, including Chief Justice Martha Koome, saying at least 10 people had been pulled from the streets or their homes by plainclothed, gun-toting men.
Koome condemned the reported kidnappings and demanded that Kenyans be arrested legally and brought before courts within 24 hours.
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