Siaya Governor James Orengo has strongly criticized the Kenyan government over the arrest and terrorism charges leveled against human rights activist Boniface Mwangi, calling the accusations “ridiculous” and an affront to political freedoms protected by the Constitution.
In a post shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Governor Orengo expressed outrage at the government’s decision to charge Mwangi with terrorism-related offenses, following his dramatic arrest on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at his Lukenya residence in Machakos County.
“By stretch of any tortured legal definition and factual foundation it’s ridiculous to charge Boniface Mwangi and our children who have demonstrated a high level of political consciousness with terrorism. Protected speech and political action should never be criminalized,” Orengo wrote.
By stretch of any tortured legal definition and factual foundation it's ridiculous to charge Boniface Mwangi and our children who have demonstrated a high level of political consciousness with terrorism. Protected speech and political action should never be criminalized.
Mwangi, a well-known human rights campaigner and vocal government critic, was taken into custody in what his supporters are calling a politically motivated crackdown on dissent. His wife, Njeri Mwangi, was among the first to break the news of the arrest in a post on X, expressing deep concern over the grounds given by the police.
“The police have come to our home in Courage Base and are taking my husband, talking of terrorism and arson! They’ve taken his gadgets and said they are taking him to DCI HQ. I can’t breathe,” she wrote.
Njeri’s emotional plea quickly went viral, prompting swift reactions from civil society organizations, political leaders, and human rights defenders both locally and internationally.
In a press statement issued on the morning of Sunday, July 20, 2025, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) defended the arrest, saying Mwangi was being held for “facilitation of terrorist activities” during the nationwide protests that took place on June 25, 2025.
According to the DCI, detectives recovered several items from Mwangi’s home and office that they claim may be linked to unlawful activity, including electronic devices and documents.
“Boniface Mwangi was arrested yesterday, July 19, 2025, by detectives at his residence in Lukenya in Machakos County in connection with the facilitation of terrorist activities during the June 25, 2025, protests,” the statement read in part.
The agency added that following the arrest, Mwangi was escorted to his office at Mageuzi Hub, Rose Avenue in Hurlingham, where further searches were conducted.
Recovered from the premises were:
Nine external hard drives
Two laptops
Company seals for Brave Media Ltd and Courage Ltd
Company stamp
Six cheque books
Copies of stamp duty documents
Two unused tear gas canisters
One 7.62mm blank round
Mwangi is currently being held at Pangani Police Station and is expected to be arraigned in court on Monday, July 21, 2025, to face charges relating to the facilitation of terrorist acts and unlawful possession of ammunition.
Civil Society Condemns What It Calls Intimidation
Numerous human rights organizations have condemned the arrest, arguing that it is part of a wider trend of silencing dissent in the country. Amnesty International Kenya released a statement demanding Mwangi’s immediate release and calling for transparency in the legal process.
“This arrest is a blatant attempt to intimidate civil society and stifle free expression. It is unacceptable that peaceful political advocacy is being reframed as terrorism,” said Irũngũ Houghton, Executive Director of Amnesty Kenya.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) echoed these sentiments, stating that the use of anti-terror laws to go after activists violates the spirit of the Constitution and international human rights norms.
Boniface Mwangi is no stranger to confrontation with authorities. Known for his fiery speeches, daring protests, and bold artistic activism, Mwangi has long been a thorn in the side of successive governments. His work has focused on issues such as police brutality, corruption, and youth empowerment.
Through his organizations — Pawa254 and Courage Base — Mwangi has empowered hundreds of young people to engage in civic activism. He has also received international awards for his work, including recognition by the Index on Censorship and the Mandela Washington Fellowship.
Critics of the government argue that Mwangi’s high-profile activism and influence among young Kenyans have made him a target for political repression.
Politicians Rally Behind Mwangi
Governor Orengo is not the only leader to voice opposition to the arrest. Several lawmakers from both the opposition and ruling coalition have spoken out, warning against the weaponization of national security laws to suppress dissent.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna called the move “draconian and disgraceful,” urging fellow leaders to speak up.
“You don’t have to agree with Boniface Mwangi’s methods or politics, but charging him with terrorism is outrageous. Kenya is not a dictatorship,” he posted on X.
Embu Senator Njeru Ndwiga added that Parliament must urgently review the use of anti-terror legislation to ensure it is not being misapplied.
“Let us not normalize the criminalization of political expression,” he said.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Legal analysts have raised questions about the legal merits of the DCI’s case, pointing to the vague language used in the statement and the lack of clear linkage between the recovered items and any terrorist plot.
Constitutional lawyer Waikwa Wanyoike warned that the government risks setting a dangerous precedent by using security laws to pursue political targets.
“We must separate genuine threats to national security from political expression, even when that expression is provocative or inconvenient to those in power,” he said.
Others note that the presence of tear gas canisters or blank ammunition does not necessarily prove intent to commit acts of terror and argue that due process must be strictly followed.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
As Mwangi awaits arraignment, calls are mounting for a transparent investigation and the protection of his legal rights. His legal team has reportedly been denied access to him for extended periods, raising alarm among rights groups.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has pledged to offer legal support and monitor the proceedings closely. LSK President Faith Odhiambo said the society would not allow the misuse of the criminal justice system to settle political scores.
“We will be present in court on Monday to ensure Mr. Mwangi’s rights are respected. The rule of law must prevail,” she stated.
Growing Concern Over Shrinking Civic Space
The arrest comes amid a broader crackdown on protests, media freedom, and online activism. Observers have noted an increase in surveillance and arrests of journalists and social media influencers critical of the government.
The United Nations Office in Nairobi has issued a brief statement expressing concern and urging Kenyan authorities to uphold international obligations regarding freedom of speech and the right to protest.
What Next?
As the court date nears, all eyes will be on the legal proceedings and the government’s handling of the case. With public sentiment sharply divided, the arrest of Boniface Mwangi is likely to become a defining moment in the debate over civic space, free speech, and the limits of state power in Kenya.
For now, the country waits — and watches — as one of its most prominent voices for justice faces the full weight of the law, and a growing number of citizens and leaders demand answers.
