A Kenyan migrant worker in Saudi Arabia has been arrested days after allegedly receiving threats for exposing the challenges faced by Kenyans living and working in the Gulf region. The worker, popularly known as Kiongozi, was among those visited by Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa during his recent tour of Riyadh.
Senator Thang’wa said the arrest is a disturbing confirmation of the fears raised by many migrant workers who face intimidation whenever they speak openly about mistreatment abroad. He noted that Kiongozi had earlier received threats from a man identified as Mr. Hamood, warning him of “surgery” and other dire consequences for highlighting the plight of Kenyan workers.
The senator shared screenshots of the threats, saying the writer though a Saudi national maintains business ties in Kenya, raising deeper concerns about the networks involved.
“This is exactly what our people go through when they dare to speak out,” Thang’wa said, urging Kenyans to stay alert and push for the safety and fair treatment of citizens working overseas.
He called on authorities, both in Nairobi and Riyadh, to intervene and ensure protection for migrant workers, saying the arrest should serve as a wake-up call on the urgent need to secure better labour conditions for Kenyans abroad.
