NAIROBI, Kenya — Activist Bob Njagi has been arrested in Kajiado County over allegations that he was mobilising young people to participate in planned June 25 commemorative protests in Kitengela, intensifying tensions between authorities and organisers ahead of nationwide demonstrations.
Police said Njagi was arrested on Wednesday after a video circulated on social media allegedly showing him encouraging youth to join the protests planned to honour victims of the June 25, 2024, anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.
Kajiado County Police Commander Alex Shikondi confirmed the arrest, saying authorities were concerned that the message shared by the activist could encourage activities likely to result in the destruction of property in Kitengela town.
According to Shikondi, security agencies have deployed officers and put in place measures aimed at maintaining law and order during the planned commemorations.
“We have put in place measures to ensure the safety of residents and business owners. Police officers will remain on high alert,” he said, warning that action would be taken against individuals who engage in unlawful activities or property destruction.
The arrest comes a day before demonstrations expected in Nairobi and other parts of the country to mark the anniversary of the youth-led protests that shook the government in 2024 and left scores of people dead and injured.
However, activists have maintained that the planned demonstrations are peaceful and constitutionally protected. They accused the government of attempting to suppress lawful public participation through intimidation and arrests.
Activist Nyanjom Joshua defended the planned protests, saying Kenyans have a constitutional right to assemble and commemorate those who lost their lives during previous demonstrations.
“We are telling the people who are questioning why we are demonstrating that it is our right as per the Constitution. It’s commemoration,” he said.
Organisers insist that police were formally notified of the planned activities and that participants intend to hold peaceful remembrance events rather than engage in confrontations with security agencies.
Another activist, Stephen Ouko, urged authorities and alleged hired disruptors to stay away from the demonstrations.
“We are urging the government and any goons who might be used to disrupt it to stay away. It’s not a day to fight; we only pray it will be peaceful,” Ouko said.
The activists have also called on Kenyans outside Nairobi to stage peaceful solidarity gatherings outside police stations while carrying flowers and the national flag in honour of those killed during previous protests.
The arrest comes amid heightened scrutiny of police preparedness and public order management ahead of the anniversary. Security officials have repeatedly warned that while peaceful assembly is protected under the Constitution, any attempts to incite violence, looting or destruction of property will attract legal consequences.
