The disappearance of cartoonist Gideon Kibet, popularly known as Kibet Bull, has sparked outrage among Kenyans and leaders, who are demanding his immediate and unconditional release. Kibet Bull’s abode in Green Valley Estate in Nakuru was allegedly raided by men posing as police officers hours before his abduction.
Kibet was reportedly abducted shortly after meeting Busia senator Okiya Omtatah on Thursday, December 26, to discuss joining the senator’s presidential campaign team. Omtatah disclosed that a suspicious vehicle had trailed Kibet to Taj Towers, Nairobi where it remained parked near his office until their meeting ended. Were police officers searching for Kibet Bull?
On Thursday, December 26, NTV Kenya reported that individuals claiming to be police officers were allegedly searching for Kibet hours before his abduction. As per the report, the dozen armed and masked men reportedly raided Kibet’s rented house in Green Valley Estate, near Egerton University in Njoro, Nakuru county. Moreover, the intruders allegedly broke into Kibet’s neighbour’s home, leaving empty-handed after reportedly realising they had targeted the wrong house. The incident was reported at Njoro Police Station under OB number 15/23/12/2024.
How did Kibet Bull become popular? Kibet rose to prominence through his viral silhouettes criticising the government, including depictions of President William Ruto. He was due to join Tel Aviv University in Israel on Friday, December 27, to further his studies. According to Senator Omtatah, Kibet visited him ahead of his scheduled departure.
His abduction adds to a troubling pattern of disappearances, with the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reporting that 28 other individuals have gone missing since protests in June 2024.
by Nancy Odindo
