OLKALOU, Kenya — A court in Olkalou has ordered the release of all 19 individuals arrested in connection with the June 25 anti-government protests, citing insufficient justification by the prosecution for their continued detention.
Principal Magistrate Judicaster Nthuku on Monday ruled that each of the suspects be released on a personal bond of Sh100,000 with two sureties of a similar amount. A minor among the group was released under similar conditions, guaranteed by a parent.
The suspects were arrested during protests in Olkalou town, which formed part of the Gen Z-led national demonstrations marking the anniversary of the controversial 2024 protests.
The protests, which erupted in various parts of the country, were sparked by dissatisfaction over governance, economic hardship, and police brutality.
The magistrate’s decision came after the prosecution, led by Jefrey Langat Kipyegon, sought to detain the suspects for an additional 21 days to allow police to complete investigations and record more witness statements.
However, the court rejected the application, finding the prosecution’s arguments unconvincing.
“The prosecution has not provided sufficient grounds to hold the suspects for the period requested,” Magistrate Nthuku ruled.
In a sworn affidavit, lead investigating officer Corporal Richard Limo had claimed the suspects posed a risk of interfering with investigations if released. He also cited the complexity of tracing and recording statements from witnesses.
Defense lawyers Nderi Ndiani and Kiragu Wathuta welcomed the ruling, describing it as a “resounding victory for justice and constitutional rights.”
“We are pleased the court has stood firm in upholding the law. The state failed to show why these individuals were arrested in the first place,” said Wathuta outside the courtroom.
The defense team criticized the state’s response to peaceful protests, accusing law enforcement of conducting arbitrary arrests without proper investigations.
The case will be mentioned again on July 21, 2025, when the prosecution is expected to update the court on the progress of its investigations.
Civil society groups have continued to voice concern over the government’s crackdown on youth-led protests, calling for accountability and protection of constitutional rights, particularly the freedom to assemble and demonstrate peacefully.
