A disturbing video that recently went viral has provoked widespread anger and demands for accountability in Kenya, with citizens pointing fingers at their government. The footage, captured by a dashcam, shows a Kenyan taxi driver in Dubai being violently assaulted by his male passenger. The assailant is seen moving between back seats, initiating what appeared to be unwanted sexual advances towards the driver. Upon the driver's rejection, the passenger menacingly threatened him, stating, "you risk dying" if he refused further.

The harrowing incident escalated as the driver cried out in terror, seemingly being strangled by his attacker. In a desperate bid for survival, the driver managed to force his way out of the moving vehicle. Once on the road, he stood in a state of shock, watching as his client drove away, leaving him in distress.

The video quickly sparked outrage across Kenya. Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), became a forum for public condemnation. One X user encapsulated the sentiment, posting, "It's unthinkable! There is absolutely no reason for a black man to migrate to an Arab country. It's insanity. A death wish." This outcry highlights deep-seated frustrations regarding the safety of Kenyans working abroad.

Amidst the public furor, Kenyan authorities have maintained a conspicuous silence. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has notably failed to issue any public statement condemning the attack, demanding justice, or offering reassurance to Kenyan citizens employed overseas that their safety is a priority. This lack of official response is particularly troubling given the significant number of Kenyans who risk personal safety and financial stability to seek employment in Gulf countries.

Government data indicates that over 416,000 Kenyans reside and work in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and others. Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi previously disclosed that the UAE alone hosts more than 30,000 Kenyans. These migrant workers are crucial contributors to the Kenyan economy, remitting billions of shillings that support countless families and bolster national finances.

Despite their vital economic role, critics argue that Kenya's government is not doing enough to safeguard these workers. Many Kenyans in Gulf nations frequently face grim realities, including poor working conditions, various forms of abuse, and exploitation. President William Ruto has been a vocal proponent of labour export as a strategy to create jobs and increase remittances. However, this recent incident, coupled with the government's muted reaction, has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of Kenya's diplomatic and labour authorities in protecting its citizens abroad.