In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing debate over Kenya’s Finance Bill 2024, over 5 activists have been arrested in connection with the #RejectFinanceBill2024 campaign.
This crackdown has drawn widespread condemnation from civil society groups, political leaders, and ordinary citizens who view these arrests as an attack on freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest.
The most recent arrests include that of Journalist Gabriel Oguda, Shad Khalif alias Shadrack Kiprono, Osama Otero, Franje alias John Frank Ngemi and Drey Mwangi who have been vocal about the rejection of the finance bill.
Speaking on the arrests, the Web3/Blockchain Communities in Kenya has condemned the arrests and demanded for the immediate release of the affected parties. The community has also called out the government to guarantee safety to all the citizens participating in the demonstrations as it is their democratic rights.
The arrests have raised serious concerns about the state of freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly in Kenya. Legal experts and human rights advocates argue that the government’s actions set a dangerous precedent, undermining democratic principles and eroding public trust in state institutions.
“These arrests are a clear attempt to intimidate and silence those who dare to speak out against government policies,” said Wafula Mburu, a human rights lawyer. “It is essential that the government respects the constitutional rights of all citizens, including the right to protest and express dissent.”