NAIROBI, Kenya — The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has defended its decision to charge several individuals under Kenya’s anti-terrorism law in connection with violent incidents during the June 25 and July 7 anti-government protests.
In a statement issued Monday, the ODPP said the charges are not intended to silence political dissent, but are instead grounded in evidence pointing to “calculated and coordinated acts of violence” that targeted critical government institutions.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that attacks on public offices, courts, police stations, and government personnel were not spontaneous demonstrations, but deliberate attempts to cripple essential services and instil fear,” the statement read.
PRESS STATEMENT ON CHARGES UNDER THE PREVENTION OF TERRORISM ACT.#HakiNaUsawa
The ODPP cited remarks by Chief Justice Martha Koome, who on June 26 described the burning of Kikuyu Law Courts during the protests as “not merely an act perpetrated by criminal elements but an act of terrorism.”
Under Sections 2 and 4 of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, the prosecution explained, acts designed to disrupt essential government functions or intimidate the public qualify as terrorism.
The use of the terrorism law in the wake of widespread unrest has sparked sharp criticism from civil society groups, human rights advocates, and opposition leaders who argue the charges could be used to stifle legitimate protest.
But the ODPP insisted the prosecutions were evidence-based and would fully observe due process.
“We are aware of public concerns regarding the potential misuse of terrorism legislation. We wish to reassure the public that each accused individual will be accorded a fair trial, legal representation, and full access to their rights under the Constitution,” the statement said.
The prosecutions follow weeks of nationwide demonstrations, triggered by proposed tax hikes and broader concerns over governance and economic inequality.
While many protests were peaceful, some descended into chaos, with government buildings vandalised and clashes erupting between demonstrators and police.
The ODPP said it remains committed to “executing its constitutional mandate in accordance with the law, the public interest, and the administration of justice.”
