Former Public Service CS Justin Muturi has protested the arrest of activist Rose Njeri over creating a platform where Kenyans can give feedback on the Finance Bill, 2025.
In a statement on Monday, Muturi said Njeri only exercised her constitutional freedom of expression through the platform as enshrined in Article 33 of the Constitution.
“I am deeply concerned by the unlawful detention of Rose Njeri, a software developer and civic activist, whose only 'offence' was exercising her constitutional right to freedom of expression and facilitating public participation through a digital platform,” he said.
The former CS, who also served as Attorney General, said Njeri’s platform was a direct contribution to the constitutional principles, as it would allow Kenyans to voice their views on the Finance Bill 2025.
Muturi insisted that detaining her for promoting public engagement is not only unlawful, but also a dangerous precedent against civic innovation and constitutionalism in the country.
“We stand in solidarity with Njeri and call for her immediate release and for the protection of all Kenyans who use technology to promote transparency, accountability, and public participation,” he stated.
Rose Njeri, a Kenyan software developer and activist, was arrested for developing an online website, Civic Email, that asked Kenyans to object to the Finance Bill 2025.
Njeri was arrested on Friday, May 30, 2025, in South B, Nairobi.
"I wrote a simple programme that lets you reject the Finance Bill 2025 with just one click. Click below to send your objection," she said in a tweet.
Latest reports said her family and lawyers had been denied access to her at Pangani Police station.
A group of activists on Sunday stormed Pangani police station in Nairobi, demanding her immediate release.
The Finance Bill 2025 proposes several key changes to enhance tax collection and simplify compliance.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has also called for the immediate release of the activist.
According to Gachagua, it is time Kenyans stand united against anyone trying to silence their voices and speak up for their rights.
“Now, more than ever, Kenyans must remain vigilant. We must speak up for our rights and each other.
“I call for the immediate release of Rose Njeri and urge all Kenyans to stand together against the silencing of our voices. Our future depends on it,” he said on Monday.
