Leaders have called for the unconditional release of detained activist Rose Njeri, arguing that she has committed no crime under Kenyan law.
Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi criticised the police over the arrest and detention of the software developer and civic activist.
In a statement posted on his X account on Monday, June 2, Muturi expressed deep concern over what he termed an unlawful detention.
He said Njeri’s only "offence" was exercising her constitutional right to freedom of expression and facilitating public participation through a digital platform.
“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 enabling public participation,” Muturi stated.
He emphasised that her efforts were consistent with constitutional provisions, citing Article 33, which guarantees freedom of expression, and Article 118, which obligates Parliament to facilitate public participation.
“Ms Njeri’s initiative—developing a website for Kenyans to voice their views on the Finance Bill 2025—was a direct contribution to these constitutional principles,” he added.
Muturi warned that arresting citizens for promoting public engagement through technology sets a dangerous precedent against civic innovation and constitutionalism.
“Detaining her is not only unlawful but also sets a dangerous precedent. We stand in solidarity with Njeri and call for her immediate release and the protection of all Kenyans who use technology to promote transparency, accountability, and participation,” he concluded.
Policy analyst Professor Peter Mbae also defended Njeri, stating that she simply complied with the law.
"Parliament asked for public participation on the bill. All she did was create a tool for Kenyans to engage," he said.
East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Kanini Kega also demanded her unconditional release.
“Release Rose Njeri Tunguru now! She is not a criminal. If not, kesho tunafika hapo mapema!” Kega warned in a strongly worded post on June 2, 2025.
Njeri was arrested on Friday, May 30, over an online tool she developed to help Kenyans formally object to the proposed Finance Bill 2025.
Her detention has sparked public outrage and condemnation from civil society and political leaders.
Businessman Jimi Wanjigi also condemned the detention, calling it unconstitutional and illegal.
“Rose Njeri’s arrest is a direct affront to her freedom of expression. It criminalises the constitutionally guaranteed right to public participation. But the people of Kenya will not yield,” Wanjigi said.
