'How we suffered in Ugandan military custody'

By Newsflash Reporter

Two Kenyan activists, Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, have revealed chilling details of their 38-day detention in Uganda, describing it as a period of brutal torture and humiliation at the hands of the military.

Speaking in Nairobi after their release on Friday night, the two recounted the pain, fear, and uncertainty they endured while in captivity. “Thirty-eight days of abduction is not easy,” said Mr Njagi. “It has been difficult. We were tortured and dehumanised. I did not eat for 14 days — I was fasting,” he added.

Mr Oyoo described their experience as deeply traumatic but said they were relieved to be home. “At this point, we don’t want to say much because we need medical attention. We are traumatised but happy to be home,” he said. “There are things I might have taken for granted, but not anymore. Every moment counts now.”

Relief, protests, and diplomatic pressure

At Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), dozens of fellow activists gathered in solidarity, singing the national anthem and chanting “Shame on you, Museveni!” in reference to Uganda’s president. Their release came after intense protests, court battles, and diplomatic negotiations involving senior Kenyan and Ugandan officials.

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Dr Korir Sing’oei confirmed that the two were freed “after lengthy engagements” and handed over to Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Joash Maangi, before being escorted to the Busia border by Ugandan officials. Busia County Commissioner Chaunga Mwachaunga received them on behalf of the Kenyan government.

Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi had earlier written to Uganda’s Foreign Affairs Minister General Jeje Odongo, urging swift action to trace and release the detained Kenyans. Kenya’s High Commission in Kampala had also lodged a formal protest through a Note Verbale on October 3.

Sources revealed that former President Uhuru Kenyatta played a key role in diplomatic negotiations that ultimately led to their release.

Families of the two activists expressed immense relief. Mr Njagi’s cousin, Caren Kiarie, said she received a call around 10 p.m. informing her of their release. “They were handed over to me by the Busia County Commissioner at around 2 a.m.,” she said, adding that Ugandan soldiers escorted them to the border before handing them over to Kenyan authorities.

Mr Oyoo’s brother, Nobert Ochieng, said the family was grateful that he was alive. “It’s a great relief. They might not be in good shape, but they are alive — that was our biggest prayer,” he said.

Upon arrival in Kenya, the activists freshened up in Kisumu, shaved, changed clothes, and later flew to Nairobi. In a brief address in Kisumu, they thanked Kenyans for their support. “What we went through in Uganda is something I never imagined. We probably wouldn’t be here without your efforts,” said Mr Oyoo.

Physical torture

Human rights organisations have condemned their abduction and detention. Irungu Houghton, Executive Director of Amnesty International–Kenya, warned of “disturbing trends” in Uganda and Tanzania that threaten regional democracy ahead of Uganda’s 2026 and Kenya’s 2027 elections.

“We call on all people across East Africa to speak out. Oppressive regimes thrive on our silence. An attack on one defender is an attack on all,” he said.

Hussein Khalid, Executive Director of Vocal Africa, said the activists suffered physical torture and that their families endured “unimaginable pain and fear” throughout the ordeal.

Betty Okero, Vice Chairperson of the Kenya Human Rights Commission, said the pair had been arrested while attending a rally for Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine).

“The long journey for justice begins now,” said Mr Khalid, adding that while their return brings relief, accountability for their torture must follow.