The recent detention of two Kenyan activists in Uganda has sparked renewed discussion on the risks of political engagement beyond national borders.
Former Kenya Tourism Board chairman Mohamed Hersi described their actions as “reckless,” emphasizing the need for caution when participating in politically sensitive environments.
Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo were held in Kampala for over a month after attending a rally linked to Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine.
Their release was secured through combined efforts involving the Kenyan government and civil society organizations, highlighting the role of diplomacy and advocacy in such incidents.
Hersi noted that while retired President Uhuru Kenyatta’s relationships with Ugandan officials may have contributed to the activists’ freedom, official intervention by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and support from human rights groups were crucial.
He urged Kenyans to focus on the successful outcome rather than disputes over credit.
The former chairman cautioned that activism in other countries carries inherent risks. Uganda, Hersi said, has strict controls on political opposition, and citizens of foreign nations are generally barred from participating in domestic political rallies.
“Engaging without understanding these limits risks not only detention but undermines the activist cause,” he added.
Hersi also drew a broader lesson for Kenyan civil society, emphasizing the importance of operating within national boundaries when political advocacy is involved.
“We are glad our activists are back safely. Wacheze league ya hapa Kenya,” he remarked, signaling the need for prudence in regional activism.