Okiya Omtatah Leads Protests for the Release of Morara Kebaso After Unjust Abduction

Human rights activist Okiya Omtatah has taken a strong stance against what he calls an unjust abduction of his colleague, Morara Kebaso.

Omtatah, alongside other concerned citizens, is currently leading a protest outside the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Kiambu Road. They are demanding the immediate release of Kebaso, whom police reportedly abducted earlier today.

Highlights

Okiya Omtatah calls for the immediate release of Morara Kebaso.
Authorities allegedly abducted Kebaso for criticizing the government.
Protestors have camped at DCI headquarters, demanding justice.

A call for justice

Omtatah stated that political motives drove Kebaso’s abduction, as a direct response to his critique of the Kenya Kwanza government.“Earlier today, police unjustly abducted Morara Kebaso simply for exercising his right to critique the government,” Omtatah explained. What is more concerning to the protestors is that the authorities have not only refused to release him but have also failed to bring any formal charges against him.

This situation has sparked outrage among human rights defenders and citizens alike, with Omtatah condemning the actions of the police. He emphasized, “It is appalling that abductions and arbitrary arrests continue to plague our country. Such actions not only undermine the principles of justice but also threaten the very foundations of our democracy.”

The protest at DCI headquarters represents a significant moment in Kenya’s ongoing human rights struggle. Omtatah and his supporters are not backing down, insisting that Morara Kebaso’s rights be respected. “Today marks a crucial moment in our struggle for human rights,” Omtatah declared, pointing out that the authorities had an entire day to bring Kebaso before a court but failed to do so.

As the protest continues, Omtatah is rallying more Kenyans to stand up against these violations. He urged, “We call upon all concerned citizens to join us in advocating for justice and accountability. Together, we will not allow fear to dictate our voices.”

The protest has become a symbol of the broader fight against what activists see as increasing state overreach and a disregard for human rights. Furthermore, Okiya Omtatah’s leadership in this movement is a reminder of the continued struggle to ensure justice and fairness for all citizens in Kenya.

Who is Okiya Omtatah?

Okiya Omtatah Okoiti is widely regarded as the country’s top public defender, even though he is not a lawyer by profession. He has filed numerous landmark public interest cases that have had a significant impact on Kenya’s political and economic landscape.

Omtatah’s pursuit of justice has come with personal risks. He has endured beatings and imprisonment for his activism. In 2012, he lost four incisors following an attack allegedly carried out by hired goons. Despite these challenges, his resolve remains unshaken.

People have recognized his efforts, and he earned a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders Kenya and the Working Group on Human Rights Defenders.

Notable Achievements

In August 2024, Omtatah achieved a major victory when he won an 8-year court battle to recover over 800 acres of government land in Nasewa, Matayos Constituency in Busia County.

In another landmark case, Omtatah challenged the inclusion of the image of founding President Jomo Kenyatta on Kenya’s new currency notes, arguing it contravened Article 231(4) of the Constitution. While the High Court dismissed the case, his activism sparked nationwide discussions on constitutional rights.

Omtatah’s Philosophy

In an interview in 2019, Omtatah said, “My activism is anchored on the Constitution of Kenya, 2010. Moreover, my overriding objective is to use the immense power of the Constitution to have the judiciary entrench constitutionalism and the rule of law in the conduct of public affairs.”

His dedication to defending the Constitution continues to shape Kenya’s judicial and political arenas. As a result, he has become one of the most influential figures in the country’s fight for justice and human rights.