Activist Boniface Mwangi was released after spending the night in detention at Kamukunji Police Station, having been arrested from his home in Machakos early Sunday.
Mwangi was located at the station hours after being taken, raising concerns among supporters and human rights advocates.
Upon his release, Mwangi remained defiant, asserting that intimidation tactics would not deter him from advocating for justice and human rights.
He criticized the state of democracy in Kenya, questioning, “Are we truly a democracy? How does a democracy justify shooting unarmed children and arresting citizens for waving their national flag?”
Mwangi outlined three key priorities for Kenyans to focus on moving forward.
First, he urged citizens to demand justice for victims of alleged police violence, calling for accountability and the prosecution of officers responsible for misuse of firearms during recent anti-government protests.
Secondly, he emphasized the need for reparations for families affected by such incidents.
He also highlighted the importance of securing national identification and voter registration for all eligible Kenyans, noting that denial of these documents is unconstitutional.
Lastly, Mwangi called for increased accountability from leaders, urging citizens to demand adherence to the presidential manifesto, implementation of key constitutional reforms, and a comprehensive audit of the national debt.
Mwangi also shared that he was arrested in front of his children without being informed of the reason.
Expressing gratitude, he said, “To my family, the legal team, and every Kenyan who stood by me thank you, and may God bless you.”
The activist’s arrest coincided with his planned protest at the Standard Chartered Marathon, which proceeded under heavy security, with police blocking roads amid concerns that his supporters might disrupt the event.
His wife, Njeri Mwangi, who traced him to the police station, shared that authorities accused him of incitement.
A social media campaign advocating for his release quickly gained traction online, with numerous supporters sharing messages under the banner of free speech and justice.
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