Six out of 58 individuals arrested during the Saba Saba protests in Juja have been set free after the court ruled they were unfit to stand trial.
Appearing before Magistrate Githinji, the prosecution revealed that four of the accused were minors, while two others were mentally challenged.
Defence lawyer Noordean Khangai argued for their immediate release, stating that continuing with legal proceedings against them would be unjust and unconstitutional.
Magistrate Githinji agreed, ordering the closure of the miscellaneous file and the unconditional release of all six individuals.
“They are either underage or mentally unfit to participate in court proceedings,” the magistrate stated during the brief but decisive ruling.
The six had been among the 58 arrested during the chaotic July 7 Saba Saba demonstrations, which rocked parts of the country, including Juja, Nairobi, and Kisumu.
The protests, led largely by youth groups, were sparked by rising frustration over government tax hikes, unemployment, and alleged police brutality.
While the six walk free, the remaining 52 suspects are set to face serious charges, including robbery with violence, among other protest-related offences.
Their hearings are scheduled to begin in the coming weeks.
Written By Joyce Nzomo
