Activist Boniface Mwangi Released After Arrest Ahead of Protest
Activist Boniface Mwangi was released Monday morning after being detained for several hours at Kamukunji police station. Mwangi was arrested at his Machakos home on Sunday, just ahead of planned protests during the Standard Chartered marathon.
Mwangi, known for his vocal stance on human rights and democracy, stated that his arrest would not deter him from advocating for justice. He criticized the current state of democracy in Kenya, questioning why citizens face arrest for exercising their rights. “Such things should not happen in a democracy,” he remarked. “But are we a democracy? Which democracy shoots unarmed children and arrests citizens for displaying their national flag?”
Following his release, Mwangi outlined key demands for Kenyans moving forward. He called for:
1. **Justice for Victims:** He urged the arrest and prosecution of police officers who unlawfully discharged their firearms during recent anti-government protests.
2. **Compensation for Victims:** Mwangi emphasized the need for financial reparations for those affected by alleged police violence.
3. **Access to National Identification:** He declared that all Kenyans over 18 must be issued national IDs and voter cards, insisting that denying citizens these rights is unconstitutional.
Additionally, he called for accountability from government leaders regarding their manifestos, implementation of constitutional reports, and a thorough debt audit.
Mwangi described his arrest, which took place in front of his children, as unjust and stated that he was not informed of the charges against him. “To my family, the legal team, and every Kenyan who stood by me, may God bless and protect you,” he said.
His wife, Njeri Mwangi, revealed that police accused her husband of inciting violence, linking the arrest to his mobilization efforts for the marathon protest. Despite security concerns, the marathon proceeded without incident, with authorities implementing strict measures to prevent any disruption.
An online campaign advocating for Mwangi’s release gained traction, with many social media users sharing messages of support.
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