Activist and aspiring presidential candidate Boniface Mwangi has alleged a renewed campaign of state-led intimidation after he discovered a spent bullet casing inside his carry-on bag following a domestic flight.
In a detailed statement released on Sunday, October 12, Mwangi recounted the incident that allegedly occurred on October 9 while he was traveling from Nairobi to Malindi.
The JKIA Incident
Mwangi claims he personally packed his bag and successfully cleared two initial security checkpoints at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). However, the bag was briefly taken from his possession just before he boarded the flight and returned with a luggage slip.
Upon his arrival in Malindi, the human rights activist made a disturbing discovery: a used round of ammunition tucked between his clothes.
“The spent cartridge was slipped into my bag during the brief moment that it was not in my possession. There is only one way of interpreting this incident: a direct threat to my life,” Mwangi stated.
He further claimed that his legal team advised him against reporting the matter to the police, warning he could be arrested for illegal possession of ammunition. Instead, he reported the incident to a trusted human rights organization and documented the evidence with photos and videos.
Escallating Political Sabotage
Mwangi asserts that this airport incident is part of a broader, escalating campaign of state sabotage and surveillance targeting him and other activists. His high-profile involvement in the 2024 demonstrations that led to the shelving of the controversial Finance Bill is cited as a key catalyst for the harassment.
The activist, who has faced numerous arrests since the previous regime, claims that the attacks have intensified into intimidation tactics since he declared his bid to contest for the presidency.
Mwangi made sensational claims that there is a plot to intimidate the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to discredit his presidential ambition. He further alleged that the government is utilizing various channels to frustrate him:
“The government is using legal and illegal channels to try to frustrate and intimidate me. They have instigated multiple false criminal charges. There are plans to falsely accuse me of failing to pay taxes and targeting my finances. I have been reliably informed that efforts will be made to deregister my businesses, among other forms of financial sabotage.”
Activst Boniface Mwangi has announced his intention to run for the presidency in Kenya’s 2027 General Election. Known for his fierce advocacy and no-holds-barred criticism of political corruption, Mwangi stated that his bid is a direct challenge to the country’s political establishment.
Mwangi made the announcement on social media, where he has long been a prominent voice for social justice and accountability. In a post that quickly went viral, he declared that his campaign would focus on systemic reform, economic justice, and empowering the youth.
A Campaign Built on Activism
For years, Mwangi has been at the forefront of social and political movements, organizing protests and leading campaigns against government corruption and police brutality. His supporters see him as a fresh alternative to traditional politicians, arguing that his history of activism proves his commitment to the issues facing ordinary Kenyans.
Mwangi’s past political ventures have been met with mixed success. In 2017, he ran for the Starehe parliamentary seat in Nairobi but was unsuccessful. However, that campaign cemented his reputation as a grassroots candidate willing to take on powerful opponents.
The Road Ahead
Mwangi’s announcement comes at a time when many Kenyans are disillusioned with the political status quo. His campaign is expected to leverage his strong social media presence and appeal to younger voters who are looking for a new kind of leadership.
While the path to the presidency is long and challenging, Mwangi remains confident. He is banking on his public image as a man of the people to rally support and challenge the political giants who have dominated Kenyan politics for decades. His entry into the race is set to make the 2027 election one of the most anticipated and closely watched in recent history.
Human rights activist Boniface Mwangi, who was arrested on Saturday, July 19, has seen the terrorism charges against him dropped by the prosecution. Instead, Mwangi, who was arraigned at the Kahawa Law Courts on Monday morning, now faces two counts of possession of ammunition without a valid firearm certificate.
The revised charges allege that the activist was found in possession of three teargas canisters and one round of blank ammunition.
Count one of the charge sheet reads: “On July 19, 2025, at Mageuzi Hub in Nairobi County within the Republic of Kenya, you were found in possession of noxious substances, to wit, three teargas cannisters without lawful authority.”
The second count states:
“On July 19, 2025, at Mageuzi Hub in Nairobi County within the Republic of Kenya, you were found in possession of one round of 7.62×21mm blank ammunition without lawful authority.”
Mwangi’s arrest on Saturday by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) stemmed from a raid on his Lukenya home. At the time, the DCI had stated that he was being questioned in connection with “facilitating terrorism.” While confirming the arrest the following day, the DCI had initially claimed to have recovered a 7.62mm blank round and two unused teargas canisters – a discrepancy noted with the three teargas canisters mentioned in the current charge sheet.
Other items listed in the DCI’s initial report as recovered were nine assorted external hard drives, two laptops, company seals for Brave Media Ltd and Courage Ltd, a company stamp, six cheque books, and copies of stamp duty documents.
However, speaking outside Pangani Police Station on Sunday, Mwangi’s family and legal team, led by lawyer Njanja Maina, vehemently dismissed the DCI’s assertion that he had any terrorism materials in his possession.
“We have seen a statement by the DCI today that there are items that were picked from his office. We can confirm and state with no uncertainty that those are things which he did not have in his possession. So we do not know why they are coming up with terrorism charges,” Maina stated, disputing the initial claims.
The legal team further accused the DCI of bypassing an ex parte order, which had only been issued for the search of his offices, by also searching his residence without a specific warrant for the home.
“Boniface Mwangi was picked from his residence at around 4 pm and brought to his office, where officers had obtained an ex parte order. The search warrant was exclusive to his office, but we can also confirm that they searched his home. We don’t know why this was done, especially since there was no arrest warrant accompanying the order,” Maina relayed, raising questions about the legality of the entire operation.
Mwangi remains in custody at Pangani Police Station as legal proceedings continue.
Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi is now facing new charges after the state dropped terrorism-related allegations that led to his arrest over the weekend.
Mwangi was arraigned at the Kahawa Law Courts on Monday, July 21, where prosecutors withdrew the initial terrorism accusations and instead charged him with two counts related to unlawful possession of ammunition.
According to the charge sheet presented in court, Mwangi is accused of being found with three teargas canisters and one round of blank ammunition.
The first count reads:
“On July 19, 2025, at Mageuzi Hub in Nairobi County within the Republic of Kenya, you were found in possession of noxious substances, to wit, three teargas canisters without lawful authority.”
The second count concerns the possession of a single round of blank ammunition, also allegedly without legal authority.
Arrest Sparks Public Outcry
Mwangi’s arrest on Saturday triggered widespread public criticism, with many Kenyans expressing concern over what they viewed as intimidation of outspoken government critics. The prominent activist and photojournalist is well-known for his bold stance on governance, human rights, and social justice.
Shortly after his arrest, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) suggested that Mwangi was being held in connection with investigations into planned acts of violence during ongoing protests. However, no terrorism-related charge was formally brought before the court.
Legal Team Speaks Out
Mwangi’s legal team has termed the charges “trumped up,” arguing that they are an attempt to silence dissent and criminalize activism. His lawyers are expected to file an application for dismissal or a constitutional petition challenging the legality of the case.
The prosecution has not yet disclosed how the alleged ammunition was recovered, or the basis for linking the items to the activist.
Background
Mwangi is a high-profile critic of the Kenyan government and has participated in and led several protests against corruption, extrajudicial killings, and poor governance. His latest arrest comes amid heightened political tension in the country, with civil society groups and opposition leaders decrying what they describe as a crackdown on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
The case will continue to draw national attention as it unfolds, with observers watching closely to see whether it marks a turning point in the state’s handling of activism and dissent.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has released a detailed statement outlining the reasons for the arrest of renowned human rights activist Boniface Mwangi, the charges he will face in court, and a list of items recovered from his home and office.
Mwangi was apprehended on Saturday evening, July 19, 2025, with detectives subsequently conducting extensive searches at both his Lukenya residence and his Hurlingham office as part of their ongoing investigations.
According to the statement issued by the DCI on Sunday, July 20, Mwangi was arrested on suspicion of facilitating terrorist activities during the widespread protests that occurred on June 25, 2025.
During the initial arrest at his Lukenya home, detectives seized two mobile phones, a laptop, and several notebooks. Subsequently, Mwangi was escorted to his office at Mageuzi Hub, Rose Avenue in Hurlingham, Nairobi, where a further search was conducted. This led to the recovery of:
Nine assorted external hard drives
Two additional laptops
Company seals for Brave Media Ltd and Courage Ltd
A company stamp
Six cheque books
Copies of stamp duty documents
Two unused tear gas canisters
One 7.62mm blank round
The DCI statement confirmed that the prominent activist is currently being held at Pangani Police Station. He is expected to be arraigned in court tomorrow, Monday, July 21, 2025, where he will be formally charged with offences related to the facilitation of terrorist acts and unlawful possession of ammunition.
Mwangi’s arrest has ignited a strong reaction across social media platforms, with Kenyans demanding his immediate and unconditional release. The hashtag #FreeBonifaceMwangi quickly gained traction and has been trending since his detention. Among the notable figures who have joined the online push for his release is Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who publicly condemned the arrest.
“I strongly condemn the arrest of civil rights activist Boniface Mwangi, a bold and fearless advocate for truth and justice. I have directed our legal team to do everything they can to ensure his release at the earliest time possible. #FreeBonifaceMwangi,” Musyoka wrote, adding significant political weight to the calls for Mwangi’s freedom.
Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, the young mask vendor reportedly shot in the head during Nairobi protests on June 17th, has been officially declared brain dead. This heartbreaking news was announced by his family, revealing Boniface has been on life support at Kenyatta National Hospital for weeks.
The incident that led to Boniface’s critical condition sparked national outrage, intensifying calls for police accountability.
Emily Wanjira, the family spokesperson, delivered the devastating update to the media. She explained they received a call from the hospital around 12:47 AM, confirming Boniface’s brain-dead status.
“The reality…is that Boniface Mwangi Kariuki is confirmed to be brain dead,” she stated.
Wanjira clarified that while Boniface’s heart continues to beat, his brainstem is no longer functioning, and his brain is “fully dead.”
However, under Kenyan law, disconnecting life support is not permitted, meaning Boniface remains connected. The family has been told to “wait for the fate,” with their primary concern now being when his heart will stop.
The family is also facing an immense financial burden. Boniface’s hospital bill has soared to “3 point something” million Kenyan shillings. Despite previous hopes and promises, Wanjira lamented that they have received no communication or assistance from the government regarding the mounting costs.
The emotional toll on the family is profound. Wanjira admitted that the news of Boniface’s brain death deeply affected them, making it difficult to face the public given the widespread attention his story has received.
Boniface’s tragic shooting by police officers during the #JusticeForAlbertOjwang protests ignited significant public outcry. Police officers allegedly involved in the shooting have since been arrested and arraigned in connection with the incident, as the public continues to demand justice for Boniface and address broader issues of police conduct during demonstrations.
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has strongly condemned the alleged torture of Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan lawyer Agather Atuhaire while in detention in Tanzania, calling on President Samia Suluhu to ensure justice is served.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, June 2, Passaris urged the Tanzanian leader to take swift action against the officers reportedly involved in the inhumane treatment of the activists.
Mwangi and Atuhaire were arrested in Dar es Salaam on May 20, 2025, where they were attending a court hearing for Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who is facing treason charges.
Disturbing Accounts of Torture and Humiliation
Passaris expressed deep disturbance over the reported torture and abuse of Boniface and Agather during their detention, appealing to President Suluhu to prevent such atrocities from recurring.
“I call on her, not just as a head of state but as a mother and champion for change, to ensure that such atrocities are not repeated and that justice is served,” Passaris emphasized.
In a press briefing held on June 2, Boniface Mwangi recounted a harrowing ordeal. He alleged that he was subjected to severe torture, including being taken to a secret location under orders from a high-ranking Tanzanian state security official. Mwangi narrated that he was “stripped naked, flogged, and even sodomized using objects during his time in captivity in Tanzania.”
“They tied me upside down, and then they started beating my feet. I was screaming so hard, but there were no tears coming out because of how painful it was. One of them suggested that they put underwear in my mouth, so they did. To drown my screams, they were playing gospel music,” Mwangi vividly described.
Agather Atuhaire shared a similarly disturbing account, recalling being stripped naked and tortured. She stated that the first blow was to her back after she refused to undress, before being forcefully undressed and violated.
After being missing for three days in Tanzania, both activists were reportedly found “dumped at the borders of their country and Tanzania” after being deported by road.
A Stain on the Region’s Conscience
Passaris asserted that the unlawful arrest and inhumane treatment of Mwangi and Atuhaire are not only egregious violations of their fundamental rights but also “a stain on the region’s collective conscience.”
“As a mother, legislator, and defender of human rights, I am deeply disturbed by the accounts of torture, sexual abuse, and humiliation they endured. They are not the values that define our continent, our leadership, or our future,” she added, underscoring the severity of the alleged human rights abuses.
Kenyan police are seeking to detain activist Boniface Mwangi and four other protesters for 21 days to complete investigations, accusing them of false publication, unlawful assembly, and incitement. This move has sparked widespread calls for their release, with the hashtag #FreeBonifaceMwangi trending on social media. Critics argue that the detention is an attempt to suppress dissent and is reminiscent of detention without trial. The situation has also drawn attention to the case of Shad Khalif, with calls for his release and accountability for his whereabouts.
His lawyer responded saying
Kulingana na article 37 ya Kenya, you are supposed to have a right to protest. That is your constitutional right which is enshrined kwa katiba. What they were doing was demanding for accountability. We have tried to engage the officers on the aspect of releasing him on bail. Unfortunately, we are yet to meet that conclusion.
We shall update you as the story unfolds. Here is a full video of the lawyers interaction with the media:
Today, Tuesday, is expected to witness another round of protests aimed at pressuring the government to take accountability for the lives lost during the previous mass disobedience sparked by the unpopular Finance Bill, 2024.
Since the first Occupy Parliament protests on June 18, President William Ruto has implemented drastic measures, including withdrawing the Bill and firing his entire Cabinet except for one minister. However, these actions have done little to appease the youthful demonstrators, popularly known as Gen Z.
Activist Boniface Mwangi confirmed on Monday evening that the peaceful protests would proceed as planned until the government takes responsibility for the deceased protesters.
“So let’s not think we have won anything yet because we don’t have anything tangible we can say we have won. Why can’t the President call the families of those who died and apologise because he hasn’t done any of that,” Mwangi said.
The government has acknowledged that at least 25 protesters died during the protests, although the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) put the death toll at 41, with 360 injuries.
Speaking virtually at a town hall dialogue organised by Africa Uncensored, Mwangi, who has been at the forefront of the anti-government protests, said it’s going to be a long fight until justice is served for the victims.
“The thing is, what we are asking for at this particular stage is justice for the victims. We need compensation for the victims and all the alleged killer cops prosecuted,” he said.
“We are also saying that the housing levy needs to be scrapped, bring back NHIF, we don’t want this SHIF thing. The problem we have is that if we leave the streets, he will not listen to us,” Mwangi added.
Mercy, another speaker at the town hall dialogue also attended by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, said their demands go beyond merely holding the government accountable.
“One life lost is one too many,” she said, adding that “repentance without restitution is just hot air.”
“We cannot afford to play a game of numbers when it comes to people’s lives. We cannot come and ask whether it was 40 people or whether it was one person, 15, or 30 people,” she said.
The protesters also want the President to hold the dismissed office holders accountable for any commissions or omissions on their end.
“We cannot clap for fish for swimming, that’s what it’s supposed to do,” she said.
Mwangi urged those who cannot join the protests to stay home in solidarity.
“As Omtatah said, the streets are the biggest stage you can ever have because when you disrupt people’s lives, the government listens, and that’s why the Constitution gives the right to protest.”
Activist and human rights defender Boniface Mwangi has shared that he treats every meal before a protest as if it might be his last.
In a video posted on X on Monday, Mwangi explained that he hasn’t had sufficient rest since the first Occupy Parliament protests, which have evolved into a national movement for change.
“This video was shot a week ago ahead of the #OccupyParliament protests. My wife and her sister were in the streets with us,” Mwangi said.
In the video, Mwangi is seen enjoying a meal with his family as they recorded skits, commenting that his wife “cut the video too soon.”
“Every meal I eat before I head to a protest is my last supper. I haven’t slept well in weeks, but the struggle is stronger than sleep,” he said.
Mwangi was a key organizer of the Occupy Parliament protests on June 18 and 25, where youthful protesters followed through on their threat to occupy Parliament.
During the June 25 protests, Mwangi was the first to raise the alarm about goons infiltrating the peaceful march to cause destruction. A group of youth managed to break through police barricades and storm Parliament, leading to a violent police response.
In a later address, President William Ruto acknowledged that the protests were peaceful until criminals infiltrated and engaged in “treasonous” acts, which he said would not go unpunished.
The number of protesters who were shot dead remains disputed. President William Ruto mentioned during a media roundtable at State House that the number was 19.
Ahead of the upcoming protests on Thursday, Mwangi discouraged marching to State House, arguing that it would undermine the goal of holding members of Parliament accountable.
In a separate post on X later on Monday, Mwangi affirmed his participation in Tuesday’s demonstrations to Parliament.
“I know tomorrow I will be in the streets. I was there last week. I made it to the precincts of Parliament when police opened fire on unarmed protesters. Innocent lives were cut short by police. If you can’t be in the streets with us, stay home in solidarity,” he said.
Boniface Mwangi is a Kenyan activist who wears many hats. He’s a photojournalist known for capturing the violence that erupted after Kenya’s 2007 election. He’s also a politician and a social activist who founded Team Courage to fight for justice and equality for ordinary Kenyans. Recently, in June 2024, there were news reports of him being caught in the middle of protests against the Finance Bill.
He did an interview afterwards expressing his thoughts on Ruto’s position after the whole fiasco:
“What I know for a fact is that, if Ruto survives this week, and this year… he’s a one term president. The events of this week are unforgivable.”
The interviewer was shocked that Boniface spoke with such certainty, to which he added:
“The people have spoken, and so I don’t think that he’s going to come back. You know, the truth is he ran on a platform of hustlers. Give them jobs, they don’t have jobs. He’s overtaxing them. He’s taken away healthcare. He’s taken away their education. There is nothing that is actually working in this country. And so unless a miracle happens, he is a one-term president.”
Powerful words from one of Kenya’s most prolific protestors. To see the interview in it’s entirety, watch the interview below:
Activists Boniface Mwangi, Hanifa Adan, and Haki Africa Executive Director Hussein Khalid have been released from the Nairobi Regional DCI HQ following their questioning about the Finance Bill 2024 protests.
Their legal team included former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga and Senior Counsel Ahmednasir Abdullahi.
Earlier, Mwangi stated they were at the DCI headquarters to present a petition regarding alleged abductions targeting peaceful protesters.
“Two Subarus attempted to kidnap us on Friday outside City Mortuary, but we managed to escape. We are here to tell the DCI to either arrest us or allow us to protest peacefully,” Mwangi said.
He also claimed that abductions reminiscent of the infamous River Yala incidents have resurfaced, despite President William Ruto’s vow to end such practices.
“This is a return to the Yala River era, which President Ruto promised to end,” Mwangi asserted. “The president said ‘no more River Yala,’ but this is River Yala all over again.”
Prominent activist Boniface Mwangi has launched a scathing critique of the anti-homosexuality discourse in Kenya, arguing that it distracts from the country’s real problems.
In a social media statement, Mwangi emphasized that issues like poverty and corruption, not personal relationships, are the primary concerns Kenyans should address. He asserted, “Kenya is not poor because men date men, and women date each other. Kenya is poor because your religious leaders are stealing our taxes.”
Mwangi’s comments came in response to Nyali MP Mohammed Ali’s criticism of his stance on LGBTQ+ rights. The activist, currently vacationing in Dubai, urged Kenyans to embrace their personal choices and prioritize their happiness. “Heaven is here people,” he declared. “There is no guarantee of heaven. Live now. Love now. Marry and love the one you want.”
He further stressed that the public should not be preoccupied with others’ private lives. “The main problems facing the country is not what people do in their bedrooms,” he asserted. “It starts with unethical leaders.”
Mwangi drew a stark comparison between Kenya’s focus on morality and the situation in countries it seeks financial aid from. He pointed out, “The countries where Ruto goes to ask for loans have zero laws on morals but they imprison those who are corrupt and steal. Get your noses out of people’s bedrooms.”
By directing attention towards corruption and away from personal choices, Mwangi urges Kenyans to focus on the issues that truly hinder the nation’s progress and well-being. He calls for a shift towards accountability and transparent leadership, highlighting the detrimental consequences of neglecting these crucial concerns.
Boniface Mwangi has been sentenced to two months in prison for contempt of court in a defamation case filed by a government minister. Boniface Mwangi was found guilty of violating a gag order that prevented him from discussing the case on social media.
Mwangi has the option of paying a fine to avoid jail time. However, he has said that he is unwilling to do so, as he believes that he is being persecuted for speaking the truth.
Human rights groups and activists have criticized the sentencing, arguing that it is an attempt to silence Mwangi and prevent him from speaking out against government corruption.
Tl;dr
Activist Boniface Mwangi has been sentenced to two months in prison for contempt of court in a defamation case filed by a government minister. Mwangi has the option of paying a fine to avoid jail time, but he has said that he is unwilling to do so. Human rights groups and activists have criticized the sentencing, arguing that it is an attempt to silence Mwangi and prevent him from speaking out against government corruption.
Activist Boniface Mwangi has called on President William Ruto and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua to declare their wealth and tax returns publicly.
Mwangi made the remarks after President Ruto and Mr. Gachagua shared photos of themselves filing their tax returns at the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) headquarters in Nairobi.
During his visit to the taxman, President Ruto stated that KRA should facilitate the smooth and efficient payment of taxes by deploying a simple, transparent and convenient system for all Kenyans, backed by the best technology available.
On his part, Mr. Gachagua noted that the Head of State had led by example and urged all Kenyans to follow suit by filing their Tax Returns on time as required by law.
In response to their visit, Mwangi tweeted, “You @rigathi and @WilliamsRuto should make your wealth declaration and tax returns public if you mean business. Anything short of that is just public relations. All the leaders of the free world where you borrow money make their wealth public. Leadership entails true transparency.”
You @rigathi and @WilliamsRuto should make your wealth declaration and tax returns public if you mean business. Anything short of that is just public relations. All the leaders of the free world where you borrow money make their wealth public. Leadership entails true transparency https://t.co/aFALC5Fo5y
— The People’s Watchman (@bonifacemwangi) May 26, 2023
Mwangi’s call comes amid growing public scrutiny of the wealth and financial dealings of Kenya’s political leaders. In recent years, there have been a number of high-profile corruption scandals involving Kenyan politicians, and many Kenyans are demanding greater transparency from their leaders.
By calling on President Ruto and Mr. Gachagua to declare their wealth and tax returns, Mwangi is hoping to shine a light on the financial dealings of Kenya’s political elite and hold them accountable to the public.
It remains to be seen whether President Ruto and Mr. Gachagua will heed Mwangi’s call. However, if they do, it would be a significant step towards greater transparency and accountability in Kenyan politics.
Activist Boniface Mwangi is not afraid to play dirty with Governor Alfred Mutua. In fact, when you look at it, seems like Mwangi lures the Machakos Governor into online fights; (which he often falls for) giving him a proper platform and audience to expose shocking details about the governor that many know nothing about.
Anyway 4 weeks after activist Boniface Mwangi failed to show up for his court hearing following the defamation case filed against him by Alfred Mutua; the two are back to making headlines and it doesn’t look pretty!
This is after Mutua’s lawyers Harrison Kinyanjui revealed he was going ahead with the contempt of court case against activist Boniface Mwangi; who continues to disobey the court which prohibited him from publishing (in the print, electronic or online media) defamatory material concerning Governor Mutua.
In a screenshot shared by Boniface Mwangi, the mail read;
We have no option but to proceed with the scheduled contempt of court proceedings.
Boniface Mwangi shares screenshot from Alfred Mutua’s lawyers
Boniface hits back
What we didn’t expect, is the defense mechanism used by Boniface Mwangi against Mutua. Once again, Mwangi saw an opportunity to expose more dirt on the Governor and truth is – his post has left fans talking.
Well Boniface alleges that the governor threatened to kill ex, Lillian Ng’ang’a in a Tweet he wrote;
@DrAlfredMutua is not magnanimous, no one threatens to kill their ex-partner, fraudulently transfers her company shares, steals a car and then bombs our home is magnanimous! All the evidence supporting this is with the police. @DCI_Kenya are protecting Mutua and his accomplices!
Although he did not share details of the threat, all we can see is that Boniface Mwangi is pulling out the big guns with just 157 days to the general elections.
Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi has taken to his Instagram to express his sentiments on divorce. The popular photo-journalist recently defended Lillian Nga’ng’as relationship with Juliani after the duo got attacked by fans.
Juliani was on the receiving end for being alleged to have stolen a governor’s wife (Lillian Ng’ang’a). However, Lillian made it clear that she chose Juliani and she’s happy.
Juliani and Ng’ang’a-Google
Lillian’s separation with Mutua was however an amicable one-at least that’s what they told us.
According to Boniface, there’s no problem with separation; (divorce) especially when the partner is toxic. He wrote on his Instagram;
Boniface Mwangi-Instagram
”I support divorce and separation any day, everyday. If someone doesn’t feel safe in their marital home, they should leave. If s/he is violent once, they will do it again. If “god” hates divorce, he can marry that abusive partner but the abused/mistreated spouse should leave. The vows of “till death do us apart” have made many people stay in abusive marriages. A couple friend of ours made a vow to do life together until they can’t do it anymore.
Don’t let society pressure you to stay in unhappy relationship. Leave. Prioritize your happiness not vows. Even if you don’t fall in love again, you will be alive and safe. Don’t be a statistic of abusive marriages. Kids brought up in abusive marriages grow up with wounds.
So even staying for the children doesn’t help them. Athlete Tirop would be alive today if society hadn’t forced her to reconcile with her abusive and jealous husband. If you have ever left a relationship because of an abusive partner, it could be emotional or physical, please share in the comments and give someone the courage to walk away.”
Political activist Boniface Mwangi lives to tell the story of how veteran investigative journalist, John Allan Namu saved his life in a clash between the men in blue and street protesters.
It has been 10 years since the fateful event happened but the political activist looks back and thanks a fellow journalist and friend, Mr Allan Namu for being a person he could rely on at his weakest.
2010, the politician got entangled in a wild street protest he was filming, where he turned victim after a stray stone hit his head from the back.
Binoface Mwangi turns victim while covering a street protest
He was covering a protest outside Jamia Mosque, on January 15, where Muslim youth were protesting the arrest of Sheikh al Faisal who had been convicted in the UK.
So City Market traders started pelting stones at protesting youth before a man in the crowd got shot and as he was being carried to safety, Boniface moved in to frame the shot.
Only for a flying stone to suddenly hit his head from the back, sending him to the ground and he just could not move.
Allan Namu and Boniface Mwangi at a street protest
Boniface Mwangi’s Kenyan film ‘Softie’ is set to premiere in the country tomorrow, in various cinemas at scheduled times.
A film nominated under the best documentary feature in the 2021 Oscar Awards, shortlisted among 40 other documentaries.
Friday, October 16, ‘Softie’ officially premieres on the Kenyan motherland.
Boniface Mwangi’s ‘Softie’ film to premiere in Kenya
A film shot in Kenya, for a better part of the 2017 elections, written and directed by Sam Soko and produced by Toni Kamau.
The film ‘Softie’
The local production attempts to take viewers through the renown political activist’s life. Right from his street protests, to his activism and also his campaign journey in his bid to join the local political space.
Apart from his journey, his family features as key characters in the play. The one support system that had his back through it all, while advocating for equality and condemned injustices in the country.
Boniface Mwangi’s adorable family
‘Softie’ premieres in Kenya
Anga Diamond Plaza will be screening the film from Friday, October 16, until Thursday, October 22.
Prestige Cinema screens it on October 17 and Motion Cinemas in Donholm screens it on October 20. October 16 to October 22, the film moves to Rupas in Eldoret.
Oscar-nominated ‘Softie’ film premieres
In January 2020, the Kenyan film premiered at Sundance Film Festival where it won a special jury prize for editing. Thereafter, scooping the ‘Best Documentary’ award at the Durban International Film Festival 2020.
Qualifying the Kenyan film for consideration for the Oscar documentary shortlist for the 93rd Academy Awards ceremony.
Boniface Mwangi and film director Sam Soko at the Sundance Film Festival 2020
In the event that ‘Softie’ scoops the Oscars award, then Boniface Mwangi will become the second Kenyan to ever bag the coveted International award after a dear Lupita Nyong’o.
Human rights activist Boniface Mwangi is one happy and lucky man after his family escape unhurt following an accident a long the Namanga-Amboseli road at Lorubuko on Sunday.
Mwangi was traveling with his wife and three children when their car skidded on loose gravel before losing control and flipping over. The family was injured at all thanks to their seat belts.
“We had passed some men grazing, slowed down, said Hello & then drove on, a few minutes later they heard kids screaming. They rushed to the scene and found us shaken but okay.
“When all that very scary experience stopped, all five of us were still belted and in our seats, upside down. Safety belts are lifesavers. Belt up,” wrote Mwangi.
Gratitude
Mwangi thanked Amboseli Serena Lodge for swiftly responding and sending a vehicle to rescue them and also slaughtered a goat at the scene to thank the Maasai morans who rushed to their rescue.
“Slaughtered a thank you goat for Sakita, Ngaiyai & co who came to our rescue. They found us outside the car and stared in disbelief, and then said Enkai (God) saved you. Told us we go, Maasais are good people and the car will be safe, lions and elephants don’t eat or steal cars.” he said.
We had passed some men grazing, slowed down,said Hello & then drove on, a few minutes later they heard kids screaming.They rushed to the scene and found us shaken but okey.I was taken to THE spot with phone network,they strategically built their Manyatta there & l was served tea. pic.twitter.com/QFTnSwpCJb
— The People’s Watchman (@bonifacemwangi) April 7, 2019
It's good to have that one person you call apart from your lover or spouse when you have some good or bad news to share, or simply want to talk/rant. Called my friend, and he took care of everything. He called for help and ensured we were picked before it got dark. Thank you SS. pic.twitter.com/RNqunrDA0x
— The People’s Watchman (@bonifacemwangi) April 7, 2019
Slaughtered a thank you goat for Sakita, Ngaiyai & co who came to our rescue. They found us outside the car and stared in disbelief, and then said Enkai (God) saved you. Told us we go, Maasais are good people and the car will be safe, lions and elephants don't eat or steal cars. pic.twitter.com/1Ee0esOv9q
— The People’s Watchman (@bonifacemwangi) April 7, 2019
Health insurance company – AAR – has denied it conned popular activist Boniface Mwangi in regards to his surgery on 22nd March.
Last week, Mwangi took to social media to accuse the company of reaping him off after they agreed to cover the costs of the surgery to remove a cyst on his left breast but failed to.
“The night before the surgery, on 21st March, I received a phone call from a Ms. Sheila Mbogo, informing me that they were not going to pay for my surgery, as they considered the cyst to be a pre-existing condition, for which the waiting period is two years. TWO YEARS! She further stated that l was a new client. Why? Well, last year my cover lapsed for 3 months, and at the point of renewal, the insurance claims I was considered to be a new member,” Mwangi wrote in part.
Not covered
AAR however, released a statement saying that the cover he took didn’t include his surgery. They also allege that the waiting period for a pre-existing condition is one year and not two as claimed by Boniface Mwangi.
Here’s what the company said in a letter:
Here’s Mwangi’s full statement:
In November 2016, l gave a speech on how the Kenyan middle class is only a phone call away from poverty. If you or your loved one is diagnosed with a terminal illness, and you don’t have a lot of money, you’ll end up being bankrupted. At the time, I hadn’t yet discovered another truth; that a health insurance cover isn’t a guarantee that your insurer will pay for your treatment when you need them to do so.
On October 19, 2017, an overzealous police officer shot me with a teargas canister, at close range. I was treated at Kenyatta Hospital and discharged, but later on developed a large swelling on my left breast, where the canister hit me. After the swelling healed, l was left with a big cyst, often referred to as a man boob. So one side of my chest was more swollen than the other. It didn’t bother me at first, but after a lot of prompting from my wife and friends, l decided to have it checked and, subsequently, made a decision to have it surgically removed this year.
I made an appointment with a doctor, at a hospital and the surgery was set for 22nd March 2019. My insurer agreed to cover the costs. My family and I have been faithful members of AAR since 2010.
The night before the surgery, on 21st March, I received a phone call from a Ms. Sheila Mbogo, informing me that they were not going to pay for my surgery, as they considered the cyst to be a pre-existing condition, for which the waiting period is two years. TWO YEARS! She further stated that l was a new client. Why? Well, last year my cover lapsed for 3 months, and at the point of renewal, the insurance claims I was considered to be a new member.
My conversation with Sheila concluded with an agreement that l needed to get the rejection from the medical insurer in writing and, once it was done, she would give me a call. Unfortunately she never called back and I thought it must have been a misunderstanding that had then been resolved. After all, the hospital had already been given clearance by the insurer for my surgery. I went for the surgery on 22nd March and, thankfully, the cyst was successfully removed.
In the afternoon, while still recuperating from the effects of the anesthesia, the hospital administrator walked in with a letter that had been delivered by AAR, stating that they would not settle my bill.
Still groggy, I tried to call my insurance agent to clarify. The person to whom we paid our premiums, Sam Ng’ethe, Business Manager AAR, wasn’t picking my wife’s calls. I then called the AAR switchboard and spoke to a lady called Josephine from the AAR Care team. l explained my issue and she promised to call back. Hours went by without a phone call and l resorted to tweeting about it. After a lot of back and forth calls, I finally spoke to a Ms. Carolyne Nekesa.
She spoke to her team and, three hours later, got back to me saying she had consulted with her bosses and, my faithfulness to AAR insurance notwithstanding, told me l was considered to be a new client since l had delayed to renew my cover last year. She flatly refused to address the lies that Sheila, Josephine and the team had told me before.
Lies that Sheila had called my wife to say they would not cover my surgery. (What exactly was the lie?) The company was emphatic that, according to their terms and conditions, l was a new client; terms that Sam did not disclose when we renewed our health insurance last year. The hospital was kind enough to release me without payment, to avoid accumulation of additional hospital bills and we agreed to settle in time. Thank God everything went well with the surgery and the hospital.
Health insurance companies in Kenya take our personal health for granted, especially when people with valid medical covers are denied healthcare. There are health insurance companies who are still collecting premiums, but you cannot use their cover in any of the private hospitals because these insurers simply don’t honor their obligations.
The reason health insurance companies can do that and get away with it, is because we have very weak protection laws. We are used to being taken advantage of.
I was lied to by not one or two AAR employees, but three of them. They are confident nothing will happen to them, perhaps because they were speaking under the authority of their bosses; after all, they are not in the ethics business. Conducting health insurance business for the sole aim of making profits is purely evil.
Doctors take the Hippocratic oath; a promise that they will do everything possible to help their patients and to have high professional standards in their work. What binds the medical insurance companies to do the right thing? Nothing. Zero. Profit is their “silent” oath. They do not train doctors or support medical schools. They have people specifically hired to write contracts that are hard for ordinary folks like you and me to understand, so that they can try to evade paying when you make a claim.
The Kenyan government trains doctors who also work in private practice, while on publichospital’s payroll. l wish the public hospitals would have an electronic sign-in and sign-out system for doctors working in their hospitals, and a big display board indicating doctors on duty and what time they are supposed to be there. I believe that it would help to know which health insurance companies and private hospitals are working with doctors who should be rotating in public wards.
Everyday people are fundraising to pay a medical bill for someone, but if National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) was well run – with no fake patients being taken to India for fake medical treatment and private hospitals conspiring with NHIF to steal from us – that is all the medical cover Kenyans would need.
We can’t satisfy the greed of private health insurance firms and we must demand that the health ministry provides quality, affordable healthcare for all, otherwise these health insurances continue to thrive at our expense and the majority of Kenyans cannot afford life-saving healthcare.
The right to health is a basic human right, guaranteed by the Constitution of Kenya. Article 43 (1) (a) provides that every person has the right to the highest attainable standard of health, which includes the right to healthcare services, including reproductive healthcare. Let’s demand that right.
I am sharing my story and l hope anyone who has suffered in the hands of Health Insurance companies can also share their stories as well. What’s your medical story? It’s time to name and shame them. Use the hashtag #HealthInsuranceFraudsters
Activities Boniface Mwangi is about to undergo surgery and has asked Kenyans to pray for him.
Mwangi took to social media to announce he will be going under the knife in a few days and the surgeon is a friend he met 12 years ago, who is now a biker.
He also stated that he decided to undergo the surgery in Kenyan instead of abroad because his friend will be doing it. Mwangi didn’t explain exactly why he needs a surgery.
“I am due for surgery. My surgeon is a fellow biker whom I met 12 years ago, while he was a medical student. I chose him because he understands that a biker can be here today and gone tomorrow,” he posted.
First surgery
The surgery will be Mwangi’s second after undergoing another in 2015. He went under the knife to remove sinuses which made him snore so loud that his wife couldn’t sleep.
“I used to snore. I snored so badly that my wife would go and sleep in the kids’ bedroom.” Boniface wrote in part.
The wife pushed him to see a doctor when she could no longer digest the disturbance from her hubby’s throat. Boniface finally gave into his wife’s pressure and checked in a hospital to rectify his snoring condition.
He successfully underwent a 4 hour surgery and he has been recuperating in the hospital for the last 12 days.
Boniface Mwangi has traveled to Tanzania and he is hoping that he will finally find his lost brother who was kidnapped when he was only a baby.
The Rights Activist talked about his lost brother in his book ‘UnBounded’. His brother was kidnapped by his father – a Tanzanian man who impregnated his mother.
“In the late 1970s, my mum was engaged in cross-border trading, travelling often between Kenya and Tanzania. She got into a relationship with a Tanzanian and they had a son in 1979. My mum refused to get married to the man and then one day the man kidnapped his son and disappeared,” Boniface tweeted.
Possible reunion
Bonifice took to Twitter to post the only photo of his lost brother that is in his possession. He says that his lost brother was named Bernard Warue.
Boniface Mwangi’s lost brother
“This is the only surviving photo of my brother, Bernard Warue. He was named after my mum’s only brother. My mother never discussed him and like all family secrets, we learnt of him and his disappearance through family gossip,” Boniface tweeted.
Boniface is currently in Dar es Salaam to give a speech at Cozy Cafè, he hopes that somehow his lost brother would show up at the cafe and finally get to meet him.
“Today l am speaking at Cozy Cafè Tz in Dar es Salaam at 7pm. Maybe my brother will be in the audience 🙂 #BMUnBounded,” tweeted Boniface.
KTN anchor Ben Kitili married his baby mama Amina Mude in one of a kind wedding ceremony that was held on Friday November 16th.
Ben and Amina’s wedding was unique because of their different faiths, the KTN anchor is a Christian while his wife is a Muslim.
Some Muslims took to social media to condemned their union on grounds that Islam forbids a Muslim woman to marry a non-Muslim man.
Ben Kitili and his wife Amina Mude
Let your love conquer bigotry
Ben Kitili responded to the criticisms from section of Muslims condemning his marriage. But his response isn’t enough to ward off religious zealots.
Rights Activist Boniface Mwangi has weighed in on the contentious interfaith marriage debate that has pitted Muslims against liberals and Christians.
Boniface says Africans of Christian and Muslim faiths are a lost lot. The controversial activists insists that Christianity and Islam shouldn’t divide Africans since both Quran and the Bible are foreign books.
“Love unlike religion is blind and sometimes foolish. Quran and the Bible are foreign books,that came and found our ancestors practicing intermarriages.Let no book stop you from loving the human being you love.Muslim, Christian, Animist, Atheist etc? Let your love conquer bigotry,” Boniface Mwangi tweeted.
Love unlike religion is blind and sometimes foolish. Quran and the Bible are foreign books,that came and found our ancestors practicing intermarriages.Let no book stop you from loving the human being you love.Muslim, Christian, Animist, Atheist etc? Let your love conquer bigotry. https://t.co/FHnqJnJGig
Boniface Mwangi was recently thrown out of a function attended by president Uhuru Kenyatta. He was briefly arrested at NYS pass out parade in Gilgil on Friday November 16th.
He clashed with authorities after he started documenting how police were confiscating food, drinks and throwing everything on the floor at the pass out parade.
Boniface’s activism has now landed him a new job, the fiery activist has been appointed the new Ambassador of Africans Rising.
He broke news about his new appointment in a tweet, Boniface also announced that his first assignment will be in Gambia before later travelling to Tanzania, Nigeria and Ghana next month.
“I am excited to start my role as @AfricansRising’s Ambassador. Heading to Gambia for my first assignment as Africans Rising Ambassador. I will be in Tanzania in early December. Nigeria and Ghana, see you mid Dec. I promise to continue shining a light on suffering and injustice,” Boniface tweeted.
I am excited to start my role as @AfricansRising's Ambassador. Heading to Gambia for my first assignment as Africans Rising Ambassador. I will be in Tanzania in early December. Nigeria and Ghana, see you mid Dec. I promise to continue shining a light on suffering and injustice. pic.twitter.com/ehoOr07Cu9
President Uhuru Kenyatta presided over the National Youth Service (NYS) pass out parade in Gilgil on Friday November 16th.
Boniface Mwangi was among Kenyans who were in Gilgil for the NYS pass out parade. The right activist was shocked by how police handle relatives who turned up for the function.
He clashed with authorities after he started taking photos showing how police were confiscating food, drinks and throwing everything on the floor.
I took this pic as l left @NYS_Ke Gilgil. The chaos, the dirt, police confiscating food, drinks and throwing everything on the floor. No dust bins, no order, and very aggressive language by law enforcers, barking at people. @PoliceKE, NYS cadets have sticks to push and hit people pic.twitter.com/eUsHI8rJwV
Boniface was eventually arrested by the police, he was taken to police station where his photos were deleted before he was set free and banned from attending the NYS function.
“Travelled to Gilgil to attend a relative’s National Youth Service pass out parade. I took pics of the chaos and dirt all over. I was arrested. Produced my press card (I renew my membership every year.) They made some calls, deleted my pics and said l have been banned from attending the event. The chaos, the dirt, police confiscating food, drinks and throwing everything on the floor. No dust bins, no order, and very aggressive language by law enforcers, barking at people. Kenya Police, NYS cadets have sticks to push and hit people. #SemaUkweli,” wrote Boniface Mwangi.
