Date: June 29, 2026 l Reporter: Kingston Nwosu
NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenyan human rights activist Davis Lichuma has been found alive in critical condition days after he was reported missing following anti-government demonstrations in Nairobi, prompting renewed concern over allegations of enforced disappearances and the treatment of activists in the East African nation.
According to the Social Justice Centres Working Group (SJCWG), Lichuma was discovered on Sunday night after allegedly being abandoned outside Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). He was initially admitted to the facility before being transferred to Nairobi Women’s Hospital for specialised medical care due to the severity of his condition.
The activist, popularly known as "Dife," reportedly disappeared after participating in demonstrations marking the anniversary of the June 25 Gen Z protests. Rights groups had earlier raised alarm over his disappearance, expressing fears that he had been abducted during the security crackdown that accompanied the protests.
Human rights organisations allege that Lichuma was subjected to severe torture during the period he was missing. Witnesses and activists who saw him after his rescue said he appeared physically weak, traumatised, and unable to communicate clearly about what had happened to him.
The Social Justice Centres Working Group said his condition remains critical and called for urgent medical attention, psychological support, and an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.
Lichuma's reappearance has intensified criticism from civil society organisations, which accuse Kenyan authorities of failing to address a growing pattern of alleged enforced disappearances involving government critics and activists. Several rights organisations have demanded that security agencies account for individuals reported missing during recent demonstrations and ensure those responsible for any unlawful acts are brought to justice.
Kenyan police had not immediately issued an official statement regarding the allegations surrounding Lichuma's disappearance or the claims that he was abducted and tortured. Authorities have also not publicly identified any suspects in connection with the case.
The incident comes amid heightened political tensions in Kenya following nationwide demonstrations organised largely by young people protesting governance issues, economic hardship, and alleged police misconduct. Human rights groups have repeatedly urged the government to protect the constitutional rights of peaceful protesters while ensuring accountability for any abuses committed during security operations.
Analysts say Lichuma's case is likely to increase pressure on the Kenyan government from both domestic and international human rights organisations seeking greater transparency over the handling of protest-related arrests and disappearances.
As investigations continue, activists have called for an impartial inquiry to establish the circumstances surrounding Lichuma's disappearance and to ensure justice for any violations of his fundamental rights.