The Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU), together with a broad coalition of Pan-African leaders, human rights defenders, institutions, and concerned citizens, strongly condemns the arbitrary detention and deportation of Brian Bright Tamuka Kagoro by the Government of Kenya.
Mr. Kagoro, a highly respected Pan-Africanist and constitutional and human rights lawyer, was detained on 22 February 2026 upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, after having lawfully entered Kenya. He was held incommunicado, denied access to legal counsel, family, and consular support, interrogated by security agents, declared persona non grata, and removed from Kenyan territory without due process.
This action constitutes a serious violation of fundamental rights and represents a troubling erosion of civil liberties, rule of law, and democratic accountability. It also contradicts Kenya’s constitutional guarantees, statutory obligations, and international human rights commitments.
Mr. Kagoro has dedicated decades to advancing Pan-Africanism, constitutionalism, democratic governance, and human and peoples’ rights, including contributing to the transformation of the Organisation of African Unity into the African Union. The unsubstantiated allegations used to justify his expulsion and the lack of judicial oversight raise serious concerns regarding due process and the protection of civic space across the continent.
We are deeply concerned that this action sets a dangerous precedent that may deter cross-border civic engagement, policy dialogue, and independent voices working toward governance reform and regional integration in Africa.
Endorse & Stand in Solidarity
Pan-African CSOs, media institutions, bar associations, academic institutions, and individual advocates are invited to endorse this joint statement and stand in solidarity for justice, accountability, and the protection of civic space.
Endorse here: https://sites.google.com/view/
Read the Full Condemnation Statement
The full statement is available on the PALU website:
