“Part of a Worrying Trend”: Police Reforms Group Condemns Activist Mwabili Mwagodi’s Abduction

 The Case at a Glance

Kenyan human rights activist Mwabili Mwagodi, known for his outspoken critiques of political church fundraising, was abducted in Dar es Salaam on July 23, 2025, and later found dumped near Diani in Kwale County, Kenya, after days of disappearance  .

He was transported across the border and reportedly released in the early hours of July 27, walking over 3 km from the bush to seek help at a local police station—only to face detention attempts before human rights defenders intervened  .

 The Police Reforms Working Group Speaks Out

Kenya’s Police Reforms Working Group has condemned the incident as indicative of a “worrying trend of cross-border repression.” They argue Mwagodi’s case aligns with other enforced disappearances and intimidation tactics targeting dissenting voices across East Africa  .

 Human Rights Groups Demand Action

Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and other civil society organizations have described this as a coordinated effort involving both Kenyan and Tanzanian authorities—executing cross-border surveillance, torture, threats, and forced disappearance tactics  .

They highlight similar cases, including the Boniface Mwangi and Agather Atuhaire incidents, painting a broader pattern of regional repression targeting activists who criticize political practices like church-based fundraising and regime policies  .

Amnesty International Kenya echoed calls for urgency, calling for “independent, impartial investigations,” justice at the East African Court of Justice, and protections for Mwagodi and other activists facing threats across borders  .

 Health and Safety Concerns

After resurfacing in Mombasa, Mwagodi was hospitalized at Pandya Hospital, showing signs of torture and exposure to unknown substances. Human rights advocates reported he was experiencing physical trauma, though details remain sparse as investigations are ongoing  .

The Bigger Picture: Why This Case Matters

 Final Insight

This case is not an isolated anomaly—it epitomizes a deteriorating trend of state-linked intimidation across national borders, echoing past enforced disappearances and deportations of East African critics. The Police Reforms Working Group and civil society are demanding justice:

• Immediate and impartial investigations by Kenyan and Tanzanian authorities.

• Full disclosure on Mwagodi’s condition, location, and access to legal counsel.

• Protection and restitution for him and other affected activists.

• Ends to cross-border repression and coordination in silencing dissent  .

Without transparent mechanisms and accountability, such episodes risk becoming normalized—undermining democratic rights and East Africa’s commitment to human rights and dignity.