KAJIADO, Kenya — Siaya Governor James Orengo has welcomed the dismissal of treason charges against activist Bob Njagi, describing the decision as a victory for the rule of law and judicial independence.
In a statement posted on his official X account on Thursday, Orengo praised the Kajiado Law Courts for what he termed a commitment to justice despite claims of political interference.
“The dismissal of treason charges against Bob Njagi by the Kajiado Law Courts is a victory for the rule of law. We commend the court for upholding its integrity and resisting political manipulation,” Orengo said.
The remarks came after prosecutors dropped the treason charge against Njagi when he appeared before the Kajiado Law Courts following his arrest over investigations linked to the June 25 Gen Z memorial protests.
Court Proceedings
Njagi, a human rights activist, was arrested as detectives investigated allegations arising from his alleged role in mobilising demonstrations marking the anniversary of last year’s anti-government protests.
Police had initially sought orders to detain him for 14 days to complete investigations into allegations that included incitement before introducing treason-related claims.
However, the court granted detectives seven days to continue holding him, allowing investigators to conduct forensic examinations on mobile phones recovered during his arrest.
On the eve of Thursday’s proceedings, the High Court overturned the detention orders and directed that Njagi be released. The court also ordered him to report daily to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) offices in Kitengela as investigations continue.
During Thursday’s appearance, the prosecution did not proceed with the treason charge, marking a significant development in the high-profile case.
Orengo Criticises Prosecution
Orengo, who travelled to the Kajiado Law Courts alongside Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and other supporters, maintained that the prosecution was politically motivated.
“No Kenyan should face trumped-up charges for exercising their democratic rights. Bob Njagi’s arrest is a political injustice to the entire nation,” Orengo said before the court’s decision, adding that he would remain at the courthouse “until justice is served.”
The governor argued that the ruling demonstrated the Judiciary’s constitutional role in protecting citizens’ rights and upholding the rule of law.
Case Sparks National Debate
The case has attracted widespread public attention following the June 25 Gen Z anniversary protests, during which several activists and protesters were arrested across the country.
Human rights organisations and opposition leaders have expressed concern that some arrests risk undermining constitutional rights, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and political participation.
The government, however, has maintained that security agencies have a constitutional duty to investigate criminal conduct arising from public demonstrations and prosecute offenders where sufficient evidence exists.
Investigations Continue
Although the treason charge against Njagi was dropped, investigations into activities surrounding the June 25 protests remain ongoing.
Authorities have not indicated whether additional charges may be preferred as investigations continue.