Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina has confirmed that close to Ksh.1 million has been raised in an ongoing fundraising initiative aimed at bailing out Gen-Z protesters detained during the June 25 and July 7 (Saba Saba) anti-government demonstrations.
The youthful legislator, who is also offering pro-bono legal services to the arrested youths, emphasized that many remain in custody simply because they cannot afford bail, which ranges from Ksh.50,000 to Ksh.300,000. “Over 100 Gen-Zs already admitted to bail or bond terms are still behind bars simply because their families cannot raise the money,” she stated.
Maina’s intervention comes in the wake of an alert by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) warning Kenyans about fraudulent fundraising schemes falsely claiming LSK endorsement. In a public advisory, the LSK clarified it is neither conducting nor supporting any such drive. “Please note that the said fundraising drive is not being conducted and or endorsed by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) National Office,” read part of the notice.
Despite the caution from LSK, Maina clarified that her initiative is independent, transparent, and directly assisting those affected. She described the arrests as a deliberate attempt to stifle youth dissent and discourage peaceful protest, protected under Article 37 of Kenya’s Constitution. “It is an attempt to criminalize young people’s dissent and deter any future attempt to exercise Article 37,” she said.
She also raised alarm over the use of Kahawa Law Courts a special court primarily meant for anti-terrorism cases to prosecute protest-related charges. According to Maina, this approach bypasses local judicial systems, overburdens specialized courts, and misuses facilities set up with international support.
Additionally, she criticized the remand of protesters in maximum-security prisons, citing harsh conditions, limited access to family, and proximity to convicted criminals. Most detainees, she noted, are from low-income families and lack the financial means to secure release.
Maina’s efforts have been lauded by many Kenyans online as a bold stand for justice and youth rights during a critical moment in the country’s democratic journey.
