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Activist Boniface Mwangi, four others released unconditionally

• Mr Mwangi is a vocal critic of erratic government who has frequently called out the state on matters of justice and human rights.

Activist Boniface Mwangi. Photo/Videograb

Activist Boniface Mwangi and four(4) other suspects have been released by a Magistrate's Court.

Mr Mwangi was set free alongside Albert Wambugu, Pablo Chacha, Robert Otieno, and Erot Franco who had been accused of publishing false information.

Senior Principal Magistrate Gilbert Shikwe dismissed the Prosecution’s request to extend the investigation period for another two weeks, allowing the release of the five(5) individuals.

The Magistrate released the suspects saying the Prosecution did not convince the court that they needed two(2) more weeks to complete their probe.

"I decline to allow police to continue with the investigations for two or more weeks. I hereby release the suspects unconditionally," said the Magistrate.

The suspects had been brought to court under a Miscellaneous Application following their arrest on July 26, 2024, during a crackdown after Gen Z-led protests.

Despite their arrest, the five(5) had been out on cash bail for the past few weeks.

In his ruling, Magistrate Shikwe ordered the release of the cash bail to the five(5) individuals, criticising the prosecution for unclear motives.

He noted that 37 days had passed since their initial arrest and no significant progress had been made in the investigation.

The magistrate further expressed concern that some people allegedly involved in the protests, were still missing, casting doubt on the effectiveness of the ongoing investigation.

The ruling marks a significant moment for Mr Mwangi, a vocal critic of the government and well-known activist, who has frequently called out the state on matters of justice and human rights.