PWRG in a statement on Monday dismissed DCI terrorism claims, saying Mwangi's arrest follows well-funded online disinformation campaigns targeting him.
“Boniface Mwangi is not a terrorist. His arrest follows weeks of coordinated, well-funded online disinformation campaigns targeting him, members of the Police Reforms Working Group, human rights defenders, and opposition parties,” PWRG said.
“These actions appear to be part of a broader effort to intimidate lawful dissent and those committed to upholding the rule of law,” they said.
Mwangi was accused of terrorism and money laundering, with allegations initiated by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
The police have since dropped terrorism charges against Mwangi.
The charges of possession of ammunition without a valid license will be argued by a robust defence team, as the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has decided not to proceed with the charges.
PWRG has urged the Judiciary to adhere to the principles of justice and ensure constitutionalism.
“We call on the Judiciary to work in strict adherence with the principles of justice and ensure the tenets of the Constitution are observed and not abused to promote the political persecution of those who have consistently stood for the rule of law and constitutionalism,” PWRG said.
They further raised concern over what they termed as continued misuse of the Prevention of Terrorism Act to manage public order in more than 100 other cases.
"This practice undermines Kenya’s criminal justice system and jeopardises critical international partnerships aimed at safeguarding national security.”
The statement by PWRG comes after Mwangi was arrested on Saturday from his house in Machakos.
Mwangi’s wife, Njeri Mwangi, confirmed his arrest, saying police officers seized his electronic devices and linked him to alleged acts of “terrorism and arson.”
“They say they are investigating him over claims of terrorism and arson. We don’t know more about these claims, but we will know,” she said.
