Collins Otieno, a Kenyan activist, was found alive near Kasarani along Thika Road on September 26, 2026, after going missing for six days. A boda boda rider discovered Otieno at approximately 4:30 a.m. and immediately rushed him to Nyamira Hospital for first aid and initial treatment. Otieno had reportedly gone missing while attempting to locate fellow activist Mulinge Muteti, who had himself disappeared before being found dumped in the Lukenya area on Friday.
Otieno's rescue came just a day after fellow activist Mulinge Muteti was found dumped in the Lukenya area. Vocal Africa Executive Director Hussein Khalid confirmed Otieno had been unable to speak since arriving at Nyamira Hospital. Khalid expressed relief while raising urgent concerns about the safety of human rights defenders in the country. He added that Otieno had not been able to speak since arriving at the hospital, though his account, once shared, painted a grim picture of his time in captivity.
According to Khalid, Otieno was brutally beaten up and had burn marks on his legs, clearly indicating that the last few days had been very tough on him. The activists used the moment to press authorities for formal assurances, calling on the Inspector General of Police and the Cabinet Secretary for Interior to publicly commit to protecting human rights defenders.
The activists are concerned that their lives are in danger and are seeking protection. They argue that the work of human rights defenders is properly protected by various human rights conventions, treaties, and laws. Khalid and other activists are speaking to the IG of police and the CS Interior to come out and assure them of their security and safety as human rights defenders.
Otieno was later discharged from Nyamira Hospital to enable coordination efforts with other advocates working on his case. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance and the condition he was found in have raised concerns about the safety of human rights defenders in Kenya.
Mulinge Muteti, another activist, was found after reportedly disappearing during Nairobi CBD protests. He was taken to the hospital after being dumped near Lukenya and walking to a petrol station to seek help. The incidents have highlighted the risks faced by human rights defenders in Kenya.
The discovery of Otieno and Muteti has sparked concerns about the safety of activists in Kenya. The activists and their supporters are calling for increased protection and assurances from the authorities to ensure their safety while carrying out their work.
Key points
- Collins Otieno was found alive near Kasarani along Thika Road with visible injuries after going missing for six days.
- Otieno's disappearance and condition have raised concerns about the safety of human rights defenders in Kenya.
- The activists are seeking formal assurances from the authorities to protect their safety and security.
