Prominent activist Boniface Mwangi was located at Kamukunji Police Station in Nairobi on Sunday after being forcibly taken from his home in Machakos earlier in the day.
This incident, which occurred almost 50 kilometers from his residence, raised significant concerns among his family and supporters regarding his safety and well-being.
Mwangi’s wife, Njeri Mwangi, reported that police had detained her husband on accusations of inciting public violence in connection with his planned protests at the Standard Chartered Marathon. “They are holding him over claims of incitement to violence. It is all about this marathon,” said Njeri.
Fellow activist Hussein Khaleed confirmed Mwangi’s detention, stating, “I can confirm that @bonifacemwangi is being held at Kamukunji Police Station in Nairobi, booked under the charge of incitement to violence.” Efforts were underway by his family and legal team to secure his release, although it remains unclear if he would face court proceedings.
The marathon took place without disruption amid heightened security measures, including roadblocks to prevent any potential unrest. Law enforcement officials cited concerns that Mwangi’s followers might infiltrate the event and cause disturbances.
The government’s precautionary actions coincided with growing online backlash against Mwangi, with pro-government users branding him a traitor. Nevertheless, he remained undeterred in rallying support for his cause, aiming to protest against the current leadership’s policies and their impact on the populace.
