Human rights activist and renowned blogger Abraham Mutai will on Saturday deliver a speech before being feted for his role in pushing for democratic space in Africa, it has emerged.
Popularly known as Lord Abraham Mutai on Twitter, he has been credited for the role he played for the release of Rwandese opposition leaders Diane Rwagira and her mother Adeline Rwagira.
The two had been detained without trial by the autocratic regime of President Paul Kagame but were released in October 2018 following pressure from international community and social media.In an invite by the International Women’s Network for Democracy and Peace (IwnDP), it was noted that Mutai’s presence is mandatory as he is the key speaker.
“His presence is mandatory because he is the 2019 winner of the prize. Besides, he is our key speaker and his presentation is titled “Peace and democracy in Africa in the 21st century: an overview,” read the invite signed by Iwn DP coordinator Marcelline Nyiranduwamungu.
On Friday, Mutai confirmed that he had arrived in Brussels for the ceremony which coincides with International Women Day which is celebrated globally.
"Just Arrived in Brussels, Belgium after my flight was messed up at JKIA. Small meetings at Cairo and Instabul. Old friends. Keep here for updates tomorrow. So many lessons, so much to talk about.. Meanwhile, Brussels is beckoning. Stay safe Nairobi," he tweeted.
President Kagame pardoned political prisoners immediately after winning a re-election bid but vowed to hit back whenever provoked.
Throughout her detention, Mutai led #FreeDiane hashtag which attracted international community's attention and subsequent release by the state.