On Monday, September 30, 2024, police officers arrested Morara Kebaso, a vocal critic of the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) raided his office in Kahawa Sukari, Nairobi.
The Arrest
Witnesses reported that police transported Morara in a Subaru Forester after the raid.
Videos shared on social media captured the vehicle traveling along the Thika Superhighway shortly after the arrest.
Meanwhile, his lawyers attempted to follow the police car to the Nairobi Regional Headquarters.
However, they faced denial of access to the facility. The police had strict orders not to allow anyone, including legal representatives and media personnel, to see Morara.
One lawyer expressed frustration, stating, “They have no respect for the constitution… The head is rotten all the way from the Minister of Interior.”
Background and Recent Activities
Morara has gained national attention for auditing stalled government projects. Just hours before his arrest, he condemned the abduction and alleged torture of fellow activist Bruce John on social media.
He urged police accountability and threatened nationwide demonstrations if authorities did not take action against implicated officials.
This incident follows a concerning trend of police actions against opposition figures in Kenya.
On Sunday, several opposition leaders could not attend a church service in solidarity with victims of abductions.
Public Reaction
The public has widely condemned Morara’s arrest on social media. Many labeled it an “abduction” rather than a lawful arrest.
Critics argue that such actions reflect a broader pattern of state repression under President William Ruto’s administration.
Activists and opposition leaders have called for accountability and an end to police brutality and human rights violations.
As of now, authorities have not clarified the reasons behind Morara Kebaso’s arrest. This ambiguity leaves many speculating about its implications for political dissent in Kenya.