A court in Olkalou has ordered the release of 19 individuals arrested over the June 25 protests, citing lack of compelling reasons to justify their continued detention.
Principal Magistrate Judicaster Nthuku ruled on Monday that the prosecution had failed to provide sufficient grounds to hold the suspects. Each of the 18 adults was released on a personal bond of Ksh.100,000, backed by two sureties of equal value. A minor among them was freed under similar terms, with the bond guaranteed by a parent.
The case will be mentioned on July 21, 2025, to check the status of ongoing investigations.
In court, the prosecution led by Jefrey Langat Kipyegon had asked for a 21-day extension to continue holding the suspects, arguing that more time was needed to record witness statements. Lead investigator Corporal Richard Limo further claimed that releasing the accused could jeopardize investigations through potential interference.
But Magistrate Nthuku dismissed the request, saying the claims lacked sufficient weight. “The prosecution has not demonstrated adequate justification for extended detention,” she ruled.
Defense lawyers Nderi Ndiani and Kiragu Wathuta welcomed the decision, describing it as a win for rule of law. Speaking to the media outside the courthouse, the lawyers criticized the state’s handling of the case, saying there was no credible evidence connecting their clients to any alleged damage during the protests.
“We’re glad the court has upheld justice and exposed the weakness of the State’s case. Our clients were wrongfully arrested,” said Wathuta.
The 19 were picked up in connection with anti-government demonstrations held in Olkalou town, part of a larger nationwide protest wave led mainly by young people demanding better governance, accountability, and economic reforms.
While some of the protests across the country turned chaotic, human rights organizations have sharply criticized the government for what they termed an excessive and unlawful crackdown on demonstrators.
