Kiambu County is grappling with another harrowing incident after the discovery of a young man’s body in Kawaida, near Banana, on Friday, January 3, 2025. Renowned human rights activist and Haki Afrika Executive Director Hussein Khalid broke the news, shedding light on the tragic case that adds to a growing list of abductions and disappearances in Kenya.
Body Discovered by Roadside
Hussein Khalid confirmed the grim discovery, stating, “The body of a young man was found naked by the roadside in Kawaida. Clothes and shoes were nearby, and the body was lying face down.” Khalid added that efforts to identify the deceased and notify his family were immediately underway.
Just received information that the body of a young man has been found by the roadside in a place called Kawaida on your way to Banana, Kiambu. Our team is currently working on the case, trying to confirm the identity and his family. The body was found naked with clothes nearby. pic.twitter.com/o3UtFubQmb
— husseinkhalid (@husskhalid) January 4, 2025
The victim was later identified as 27-year-old John Muchiri Muthoni. According to Khalid, Muchiri was last seen on Friday afternoon before his sudden disappearance.
In a chilling twist, Muchiri’s girlfriend reportedly received a call from an unknown number directing her to the roadside location where his body was found. The body has since been moved to Kihara Sub-County Hospital Mortuary for further examination.
Statement from Vocal Africa
Vocal Africa, a prominent human rights organization, confirmed the incident and announced plans to assist the family in organizing a postmortem. “We are working with the family and authorities to ensure justice is served. This is yet another tragic loss in the escalating crisis of abductions and disappearances,” read a statement from the group.
Another Activist Found Dead
The discovery comes just a day after the body of 24-year-old activist Ibrahim Hilal Mwiti was identified at Thika Level Five Hospital Mortuary. Mwiti went missing in November 2024, sparking widespread concern and a social media campaign to locate him. His family had filed a missing person report at Kamukunji Police Station shortly after his disappearance.
Rising Trend of Abductions
Kenya has seen an alarming surge in cases of abductions and enforced disappearances over the past six months. According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), at least 82 cases have been reported since June 2024, when youth protests against the Finance Bill erupted. In December alone, seven abductions were recorded.
Families of six young Kenyans who were reportedly abducted by state security officers in late 2024 continue to wait for answers as pressure mounts on the government to address the crisis.
Government Response
President William Ruto recently vowed to end the wave of abductions to restore public trust in national security. On December 27, he called on the Inspector General of Police and the National Police Service to address public concerns and ensure accountability.
“Our children are a blessing from God,” Ruto said. “Parents must take care of them, and the government will do its part. These abductions must stop so that Kenyan youth can live in peace and help build our nation.”
Also Read: High Court Orders Unconditional Release of Six Allegedly Abducted Individuals
However, the National Police Service has consistently denied involvement in the disappearances, leaving families with few answers and growing mistrust in the authorities.
A Nation in Mourning
The discovery of John Muchiri’s body highlights the escalating insecurity and fear gripping Kenyan families. Activists and human rights organizations continue to demand urgent action to protect citizens and ensure justice for victims of enforced disappearances.
Also Read: No Kenyan Has Been Killed by Police Since Ruto Became President, Murkomen says
As investigations into Muchiri’s death unfold, Kenyans are left asking: When will the government fulfill its promise to bring this troubling chapter to an end?
