Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has strongly condemned the arrest of civic activist and software developer Rose Njeri, terming her detention unlawful and a threat to democratic values.
Njeri was arrested on Friday, May 30, 2025, in South B, Nairobi, for creating Civic Email, an online platform enabling Kenyans to send objections to the proposed Finance Bill 2025 with a single click. Her arrest sparked widespread outrage, with reports indicating that her family and lawyers have been denied access to her at the Pangani Police Station.
Muturi, who also previously served as Attorney General, defended Njeri’s actions, stating that she was simply exercising her constitutional right to freedom of expression as enshrined in Article 33 of the Constitution. He lauded her platform as a meaningful tool to foster public participation and uphold constitutional principles.
“I am deeply concerned by the unlawful detention of Rose Njeri, whose only ‘offence’ was facilitating public engagement through technology,” said Muturi. “Her arrest sets a dangerous precedent against civic innovation and undermines constitutionalism in Kenya.”
Muturi called for her immediate release and emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights of citizens who leverage technology to promote transparency, accountability, and democratic participation.
Support for Njeri’s release has also come from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who echoed Muturi’s sentiments. Gachagua urged Kenyans to resist any attempts to silence public dissent and protect their freedoms.
“Now, more than ever, Kenyans must remain vigilant,” Gachagua said. “We must speak up for our rights and stand united. I call for the immediate release of Rose Njeri.”
On Sunday, a group of activists stormed Pangani Police Station, demanding Njeri’s release amid increasing calls for government accountability and protection of civil liberties.
The Finance Bill 2025, currently under public scrutiny, proposes a raft of tax measures aimed at increasing revenue collection. However, critics argue that citizen engagement, not suppression, is key to shaping fair fiscal policy.
As pressure mounts, the government faces a defining moment on whether it will uphold or undermine the constitutional freedoms enshrined in Kenya’s democracy.
