The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has come under intense scrutiny following the arrest of three individuals identified as prominent human rights activists. The arrests, which DCI claims were tied to the infiltration of “goons” during the June 25 commemorative protests, have ignited backlash from civil society groups and human rights defenders.
DCI Allegations Spark Controversy
In its official report, DCI alleged that the detained individuals were masterminds behind the infiltration, inciting violence, theft, and destruction of property during the protests. The agency further accused them of using social media and coordinated channels to incite unrest, claiming their actions jeopardized national stability and disrupted the constitutionally protected right to peaceful assembly.
The activists were reportedly apprehended on June 26 while aboard a Mombasa-bound bus near Konza City. According to the DCI, the arrests followed a forensic investigation and testimonies from affected citizens.
They are expected to be arraigned in court, with potential charges including malicious damage to property, arson, theft, and incitement to violence.
Human Rights Groups Denounce Arrests
The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) strongly condemned the arrests, describing the charges as baseless and accusing the DCI of distorting facts to criminalize legitimate activism.
“These charges are not only baseless but represent a deliberate distortion of the truth,” read a KHRC statement issued on June 28. “The detained individuals are renowned human rights defenders, regionally recognized for integrating music and art into movement-building and standing in solidarity with the oppressed.”
The commission demanded their immediate and unconditional release, citing the arrests as an attack on freedom of expression and peaceful dissent.
Political Allegations Stir Debate
The Ukweli Party, to which the arrested activists belong, also issued a fiery statement. The party accused President William Ruto’s administration of funding and deploying the very “goons” blamed for chaos during the protests.
One of the arrested activists serves as the party’s secretary general, while the other two are prominent members. The party denounced the arrests as a calculated move to suppress dissent and delegitimize the opposition.
Protests Marred by Violence
The June 25 protests, initially organized as a peaceful commemoration, were overshadowed by reports of violence, looting, and property damage. Images surfaced showing individuals believed to be “goons” engaging in chaos, allegedly under police protection.
Critics argue that the government’s narrative of infiltrators is being used to clamp down on activists and human rights defenders. Online campaigns, including #FreeTheActivists and #DefendDissent, have gained traction as Kenyans demand accountability and transparency.
What’s Next?
As the activists await their court appearance, human rights organizations and civil society groups continue to rally for their release. The incident underscores a growing tension between the government and dissenting voices, with many questioning the boundaries of free expression and the state’s role in preserving—or suppressing—democratic rights.
The DCI’s handling of the case will likely remain a focal point in Kenya’s broader discussion about governance, dissent, and the right to protest.
