Three Activists Arrested Over June 25 Protests Released on Cash Bail

Three activists who were arrested on suspicion of inciting violence during the anti-government protests held on Wednesday, June 25, have been released on cash bail.

The individuals, whose arrests sparked public concern and calls for due process, were each granted bail of KSh 200,000 by a Nairobi court on Tuesday. They had been detained following their participation in nationwide demonstrations that turned chaotic in parts of the country.

The June 25 protests marked the one-year anniversary of the Gen Z-led uprising against the controversial Finance Bill 2023, with demonstrators once again taking to the streets to decry government policies, police brutality, and lack of accountability.

Authorities claimed the trio had played a key role in inciting unrest during the protests, which saw public infrastructure vandalized and several people injured. However, supporters of the activists argued that their arrests were politically motivated and aimed at intimidating dissenting voices.

The release of the three comes amid rising tensions between civil society groups and the government over the handling of protests and freedom of expression. Human rights organizations have called for investigations into the conduct of law enforcement during the demonstrations and urged the state to uphold constitutional rights, including peaceful assembly.

As the country grapples with continued public outcry and demands for reform, the cases against the activists are expected to proceed in court, with the next hearing set for a later date.