Kate Actress, Larry Madowo, and Octopizzo Speak Out on Abductions
Image: A picture taken on May 16, 2016 in Nairobi shows Kenyan riot police beating an unresponsive fallen protester with wooden sticks until they break and repeatedly kick him several times. The incident has caused Kenya's police chief to order an internal investigation into the incident and other reported incidents of police brutality on the day. Police fired tear gas and beat opposition demonstrators with truncheons on May 16 to stop them storming the offices of the electoral commission in Nairobi as they demanded new commissioners to be named ahead of elections due in August 2017. / AFP / CARL DE SOUZA (Photo credit should read CARL DE SOUZA/AFP/Getty Images)The recent surge in abductions has sparked reactions from Kenyan celebrities, with many calling on President William Ruto’s administration to take action. While some have voiced their concerns, others remain silent, raising questions about whether they are out of touch with the gravity of the situation.
Catherine Kamau, widely known as Kate Actress, has consistently been a vocal advocate for Kenyan citizens. From participating in the #EndFemicideKE march in February to protesting against the Finance Bill 2024 and demanding better governance, Kate has never shied away from standing with ordinary Kenyans.
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Unlike some celebrities who have hesitated to take a stand, Kate quickly joined Kenyans both online and on the streets to demand justice for victims of abductions. Addressing the issue, she urged her followers:
“Guys, as you celebrate, please note that so much is going on. So many abductions, which now the IG distances himself from, are happening… It’s a dark era. It is heart-wrenching to imagine the anguish and uncertainty these families must endure. The absence of their loved ones is a constant reminder of how cruel and unjust this government is, and it must go!”
CNN International Correspondent Larry Madowo has also played a pivotal role in bringing global attention to Kenya’s challenges. Madowo, who has covered various crises in the country, returned from leave to report on the abductions.
“I’m not here to support or oppose anything or anyone. I’m only here to tell the truth and ask questions,” Madowo stated. Highlighting the ongoing crisis, he noted:
“Two days after President Ruto promised to end abductions in Kenya, 29 people are still missing. Previous abductees were stripped, handcuffed to the floor, and tortured for weeks. Where do you draw the line between power and dictatorship?”
Madowo’s fearless reporting has earned him recognition from Kenyans on social media, who recently praised him as a true patriot for shedding light on the nation’s struggles.
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Rapper Henry Ohanga, known as Octopizzo, also used his platform to address the crisis, condemning the abduction of young Kenyans expressing themselves through art and other creative means.
“Once again, I strongly condemn the abduction of young Kenyans using art, illustrations, and creative outlets to express frustrations and advocate for change. These actions, seemingly sanctioned by unknown forces within the government, violate our constitutional right to free expression,” he stated.
Octopizzo emphasized that art is a non-violent form of demonstration and an impactful way to raise awareness, urging the government to stop silencing young voices through repression.
During the protests earlier this year, celebrities came under scrutiny for their muted responses to the unrest. Many only spoke out after Kenyans threatened to withdraw their support, highlighting the importance of public figures using their platforms for advocacy and accountability.
