Hollywood star Lupita Nyong’o has shared her worries about Kenya’s current political climate under President William Ruto.
In a recent interview with the BBC, Nyong’o expressed concern about the situation, comparing it to the rule of former President Daniel Arap Moi.
She criticized the government for its harsh response to large anti-tax protests that started in June, which have resulted in at least 42 deaths and many abductions.
Lupita Nyong’o Speaks on Family’s Political Persecution
Lupita Nyong’o reflected on her family’s past, sharing that her father, Anyang’ Nyong’o, was jailed and tortured during Moi’s government because of his political activism.
As a political science professor, he strongly opposed Moi’s rule, which ultimately led to his imprisonment.
This concern is personal for Lupita because her uncle, an activist, disappeared during those turbulent times. The family believes he was pushed off a boat, and his body has never been found.
Fearing for their safety after his disappearance, the Nyong’o family fled to Mexico for refuge.
She said, “It is chilling to know that this government is resorting to tactics that I had thought had been left in the past.”
Lupita, however, expressed her support for the younger generation fighting for change in Kenya, saying, “I am deeply grateful for the younger people who are on the front lines fighting for a different Kenya.”
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura in response, claimed that authorities cooperated with the protesters and met their demands, including not signing the controversial finance bill that sparked the protests.
He stated, “Only police statistics are official. The government regrets any death during the protests, and anyone who may have caused such will be held responsible following the rule of law.”
Source: BBC
By Vivian K.