Wamuzi News Ke
In a bold legal move that escalates the ongoing storm over Saba Saba Day arrests, Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji has filed a High Court petition challenging the legality of his detention.
His targets: Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, DCI Director Mohamed Amin, and Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga—accused of abusing anti-terror laws to suppress political dissent.
Arrest Sparks Riot of Legal Action.
Mukunji, alongside journalist James Ikuwa Mbochi and boda‑boda rider Stanley Mbuthia Wanjiru, was arrested on July 7 near Juja along the Thika Superhighway. He was en route to Saba Saba protests when an estimated 40 police officers descended on his vehicle.
The three were charged under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, accused of collecting property for terrorist purposes—a charge Mukunji insists is absurd and politically orchestrated .
Charges Decried as Political Intimidation.
In his petition lodged at Milimani Law Courts, Mukunji argues the State twisted anti-terror laws into tools of intimidation. He asserts that none of the protesters he was with plotted violence; instead, the charges were a calculated response to his vocal criticism of the government during Saba Saba protests .
Legal Basis Under Fire.
The petition outlines several constitutional infringements, including misuse of prosecutorial power and breach of rights to free expression and assembly. It demands the quashing of terror-related charges and seeks damages for malicious prosecution, emotional distress, and return of confiscated devices .
Government Defends Actions.
Responding, the DPP’s office maintains that its actions fall squarely within legal bounds. It argues the suspects demonstrated organized criminal intent under the Prevention of Terrorism Act and warns that free speech does not exempt anyone from legal statutes addressing public security .
What’s at Stake.
Constitutional review: The petition forces the court to examine whether anti-terror legislation is being inappropriately applied to peaceful protest.Future of protest laws: A ruling favoring Mukunji could curb future misuse of terror laws against dissenters.
Government image: Perceived heavy-handedness may spark public backlash, especially among Gen-Z activists and media freedoms advocates.
