Growing concerns have emerged over the disappearance of popular blogger and activist, Maverick Aoko, who has reportedly been missing for several days.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President, Faith Odhiambo, has appealed for urgent public assistance, urging anyone with information about Aoko’s whereabouts to come forward. Odhiambo’s statement follows a string of high-profile abductions involving activists, with many questioning the climate of security for outspoken figures in Kenya.
Tracing her last contacts
“Every Kenyan deserves to feel safe and protected. We urge anyone with details on Aoko’s location to reach out to the LSK. Kenya is our home, and we must stand against any actions that foster fear and intimidation.” Odhiambo said during a press conference.
Aoko’s last known contact with her family and friends was four days ago, sparking alarm within activist circles.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino also expressed his concern, revealing that he had been in touch with Aoko’s family in an attempt to locate her. “Aoko has been unreachable, and we are deeply concerned for her safety,” Owino said, adding that despite reaching out to her inner circle, no leads on her location have surfaced.
In a statement shared on social media, another activist, Francis Gaitho, criticized what he described as “selective justice” from civil society and legal institutions regarding activist-related detentions.
“We need to demand accountability and equality in how these cases are handled. Every citizen deserves equal protection, regardless of their views or affiliations,” Gaitho wrote on X.
Increasing cases of abductions
Aoko’s incident adds to a list of recent disappearances of government critics. On Sunday, Boniface Mwangi was reportedly abducted from his home before later being found in police custody.
Mwangi’s detention had also sparked outrage, with many Kenyans demanding answers and assurances of safety for individuals criticizing the government.
Aoko is not new to controversy, and she has been in the corridors of justice. In August, she was detained and charged with publishing false information and cyber harassment under Kenya’s Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act.
Her social media activity, often critical of prominent figures, has led her to face several legal challenges. Recently, Aoko’s outspoken criticism of governmental policies stirred further public interest and scrutiny from authorities.