Blogger and activist Ndiangui Kinyagia has resurfaced after a 10-day absence, but his claim that he was in hiding has triggered widespread suspicion and public outcry.
Kinyagia, known for his outspoken criticism of the state, went missing under unclear circumstances on June 21. His disappearance sparked a national uproar, with friends, family and human rights groups demanding answers.
His abrupt reappearance in court, looking visibly shaken and with a clean-shaven head, has only deepened questions about what truly happened during those 10 days.
According to police, Kinyagia turned himself in. But critics say the narrative is too convenient and fails to address key details around his disappearance. Some activists now believe Kinyagia may have been threatened, paid off or used by the state to deflect growing concerns over the rise in forced disappearances.
Blogger Cyprian Nyakundi was among the first to question the government’s version of events. He argued that it is nearly impossible for anyone to hide from the state within Kenya for such a duration without detection. Nyakundi further claimed the incident could be part of a wider psychological operation aimed at promoting a false self-abduction narrative to weaken public trust in reports of real kidnappings.
Blogger Ndiangui Kinyagia who was missing for 10 days. Photo: The Star Source: Facebook
Former Law Society of Kenya president Nelson Havi echoed similar sentiments, accusing Kinyagia of undermining efforts to hold security agencies accountable. He said Kinyagia’s story risks embarrassing the judiciary and civil groups working to end police impunity.
Other civil rights defenders say the timing of his reappearance is too calculated. His return coincided with court orders summoning top security officials to explain his whereabouts.
This has led to speculation that Kinyagia’s sudden “voluntary return” may have been engineered to protect the system and downplay accountability.
Kinyagia’s family and legal team have remained cautious in their statements. They noted that he appeared disturbed and requested time before giving a full account of his experience.
As doubts continue to grow, pressure is mounting on authorities to conduct an independent investigation. Activists insist the truth must be uncovered, warning that without accountability, future victims of abductions may be ignored or discredited as self-made stories.