Students Threaten Demonstrations Over Abducted Young People
Students of the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM), led by their student leaders, have issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the government, demanding immediate action over the alleged abduction of young people.
The ultimatum, delivered on Saturday, January 4, has called for the unconditional release of all missing individuals, with students vowing to take to the streets on Monday if their demands are not met.
Speaking to the press, TUM Student Association President Joseph Oloo condemned the government for failing to curb abductions in what he termed a “democratic nation.”
“We are giving the government up to Sunday evening. If they fail to act, we will demonstrate on Monday to demand the release of these individuals,” Oloo declared.
The students also raised concerns about the anguish faced by families searching for their missing loved ones. Mohammed Talib, one of the students, called for solidarity and reiterated their commitment to protesting if necessary.
“We demand the release of our comrades unconditionally within 24 hours. Otherwise, on Monday, we will be on the streets,” Talib emphasized.
Highlighting the constitutional rights enshrined in Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, student leader Justus Ogoso criticized the government for permitting what he described as unlawful detentions and forced disappearances.
“Any detention without just cause amounts to abduction and enforced disappearance. This is unacceptable in a country governed by the rule of law,” Ogoso stated.
The growing discontent stems from a series of recent abductions that have sparked public outrage and drawn attention from human rights groups. Among the missing individuals are Gideon Kibet and his brother Rony Kiplang’at, abducted on Christmas Day, Bernard Kavuli, missing since December 22, and Billy Wanyiri Mwangi and Peter Muteti, last seen on December 21.
The students pledged to continue advocating for their missing colleagues, standing firm in solidarity with the victims and their families.
“We stand united because an injury to one comrade is an injury to all of us,” Talib said, echoing the sentiment of his peers.
The incident has amplified calls for the government to address the abductions and ensure the safety and rights of all citizens
ALSO READ ;Ghana Introduces Visa-Free Access for All African Nationals
Students Threaten Demonstrations Over Abducted Young People