Siaya Governor James Orengo has condemned the alleged torture of Mathare-based human rights activist Davis Lichuma, accusing state agents of targeting government critics following the June 25 nationwide protests.
In a statement issued after visiting Lichuma, Orengo said the activist was in a critical condition and unable to speak due to the injuries he allegedly sustained while in captivity.
The governor alleged that Lichuma was abducted and tortured by state agents during the June 25 nationwide demonstrations, which were held to commemorate victims of the 2024 Gen Z protests.
Orengo meets Davis Lichuma following reported abduction. Photo: Courtesy.
He further accused the government of adopting increasingly brutal tactics against dissenting voices despite repeated calls to end enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
Lichuma was reported missing on June 25 after participating in the demonstrations in Nairobi’s Central Business District. His disappearance sparked concern among family members, fellow activists, and human rights organisations, who demanded that security agencies account for his whereabouts.
After several days of uncertainty, Lichuma was found alive but in a severely weakened condition. He is currently receiving medical treatment as investigations into the circumstances surrounding his disappearance continue.
Orengo also expressed support for efforts to trace two other missing individuals, Abdulaziz Zizou and Max from Mathare, whose whereabouts remain unknown following the protests.
He backed the legal action initiated by Babu Owino, who has filed a missing persons application seeking to compel authorities to account for the two men.
The governor pledged continued support for the affected families, saying they would pursue justice through both the courts and other lawful avenues until those responsible are held accountable.
Lichuma’s case is among several reported disappearances linked to the June 25 demonstrations, with human rights groups continuing to call for independent investigations into allegations of abductions, torture, and excessive use of force by security agencies.
