Blogger and tech expert Ndiang’ui Kinyagia, who reappeared after nearly a week of being reported missing, has dismissed claims that he was abducted, stating that he went into hiding out of fear for his life.
Appearing at the Milimani Law Courts on Thursday, July 3, Kinyagia addressed concerns that his disappearance had sparked nationwide, explaining that his decision to go underground was driven by personal safety concerns, not a forced abduction.
“I had been in hiding, even as Kenyans demanded my immediate release from wherever they believed I was,”Kinyagia clarified through his legal team.
Kinyagia’s unexpected reappearance was marked by a deeply emotional moment at the court as his family, visibly relieved, accompanied him. His mother, in particular, stayed by his side throughout the court session, offering unwavering support.
Before the proceedings began, she embraced her son tightly, whispering words of comfort and assuring him that everything would be okay. Seated to his left during the session, she wrapped her arm around him, gently pulling him closer in a quiet, powerful gesture of maternal love.
Kinyagia, dressed in a maroon hoodie layered over a checked shirt, appeared visibly shaken but calm, his eyes cast downward. Notably, he sported a different look—his signature Afro shaved off for a neater appearance.
Throughout the session, his mother was seen deep in prayer, seeking divine intervention for her son and the entire family.
Kinyagia’s reappearance after days in hiding triggered mixed reactions from the public, particularly on social media. While some expressed understanding of his fears, others criticized his decision to go into hiding, suggesting it had created unnecessary panic.
However, not all responses were sympathetic. Some social media users criticized the activist, accusing him of taking public concern for granted.
“Many felt he played with people’s emotions. Some warned him against such acts, saying it erodes trust,” one social media user commented.
Kinyagia’s disappearance came against the backdrop of heightened tensions following recent protests. His return to the public eye and court appearance have reignited debate over the safety of vocal activists and the role of security agencies in such incide
By Were Kelly