On July 19, 2025, renowned Kenyan activist and photojournalist Boniface Mwangi was arrested at his home in Lukenya, Machakos County by detectives alleging his involvement in “facilitating terrorist activities” during the June 25 national protests.
Authorities report that they recovered phones, laptops, hard drives, and protest-related materials. However, no explosives, firearms, or inciting content has been publicly disclosed.
Mwangi is being held at Pangani Police Station and is expected to be arraigned on Monday, July 21, 2025, facing charges of facilitating terrorism and unlawful possession of ammunition.
✊🏾 A Clear Pattern of Intimidation
This arrest follows a worrying pattern of criminalizing dissent in Kenya. Boniface Mwangi has long been a vocal critic of state corruption, police brutality, and social injustice.
Labeling peaceful dissent as terrorism sets a dangerous precedent and violates Kenya’s constitutional commitment to freedom of expression, protest, and fair trial.
🔴 WE DEMAND:
- 🔍 A full, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances of Boniface Mwangi’s arrest.
- ⚖️ Full access to legal counsel and the presumption of innocence.
- 🕊️ Respect for the right to protest and dissent in Kenya.
We stand with Boniface Mwangi and all those detained for standing up for justice.
Activism is not terrorism. Protest is not a crime.
#FreeBonifaceMwangi #StandWithActivists #StopHRAbuse #KenyaWatch #ResurgenceForJustice