Human rights defenders condemn arrest of Boniface Akach

By Peter Ochieng

Members of the social justice movement are 'up in arms' over the reported arrest of Kisumu based human rights activist, Boniface Ogutu Akach.

Akach is a prominent figure in the social justice movement, especially in Kisumu.

He was reportedly abducted on Thursday afternoon at Kassagam fly over in Kisumu, "by persons in plain clothes on three motorbikes while on his way to Kisumu Peace and Justice Center."

In a statement condemning his arrest, members of the social justice movement said it is a distressing indication of the growing suppression of fundamental rights, and freedoms in our society.

"The circumstances surrounding the arrest of Boniface Ogutu Akach raise serious questions about the state of freedom of expression and assembly in Kenya. As human rights defenders, we firmly believe in the right to peacefully express dissenting views, challenge authorities, and advocate for positive societal change," reads the statement, in part.

They called for his immediate release.

"We call upon the authorities to immediately and unconditionally release Boniface Ogutu Akach. We remind the government of its obligation to uphold and protect the rights enshrined in our constitution and international human rights treaties to which our country is a signatory."

His whereabouts are still unknown.