Kenyan authorities and regional human rights groups are finally breathing easier after two activists who disappeared in Kampala were safely returned home.
Their case had raised growing concern across Kenya and Uganda, as many demanded answers regarding their safety and the circumstances surrounding their disappearance.
The two, Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, went missing on October 1 while in Kampala, where they were attending a political rally linked to Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine.
Their disappearance immediately sparked a strong reaction from lobby groups, civil society organisations and fellow activists who insisted that both governments account for what had happened.
Claims that Ugandan security officers were involved only increased the pressure.
After weeks of uncertainty, their release came late on a Friday night, marking the end of a 38 day ordeal that had drawn diplomatic attention.
They were first handed over to the Kenyan High Commissioner in Uganda before being escorted to the Busia border crossing by Ugandan officials.
Busia County Commissioner Chaunga Mwachunga received them on behalf of the Kenyan authorities.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei confirmed the development, noting that the process required extensive engagement between officials from both countries.
He expressed gratitude to all parties who helped secure the release and emphasised that a more detailed account of the events would be provided at a later stage.
His brief statement was meant to assure the public that the two activists were safe and now firmly back on Kenyan soil.
Their return was welcomed by Amnesty International Kenya, the Law Society of Kenya, and Voice of Community Activists and Leaders Africa.
These organisations had been vocal throughout the period of uncertainty, calling for transparency and accountability from authorities.
In a joint statement, they thanked the families of the two men, journalists, human rights defenders and the Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs for keeping the issue alive.
They also disclosed that immediate former President Uhuru Kenyatta played a role in the efforts that led to the release.
According to Amnesty, plans were underway to transfer Njagi and Oyoo to Nairobi so they could reunite with their families and colleagues.
The organisation explained that further details about their arrival would be shared once arrangements were complete.
Even though the timeline was not provided, the confirmation of their freedom brought relief to many who had been following the case closely.
The incident had caused diplomatic strain and triggered wide calls for accountability.
The activists, associated with the Free Kenya Movement, had travelled to Kampala to attend a political activity but instead found themselves at the centre of a regional rights campaign.
Their return marks a significant moment in a case that exposed the risks faced by activists working across borders and highlighted the importance of cooperation between governments when dealing with sensitive situations of this nature.
