Activist Rose Njer. Activists in Nairobi staged protest outside Pangani police Station demanding for her release. Photo: Hussein Khalid.
Democratic Citizen’s Party (DCP), has condemned the continued detention of activist Rose Njeri by the Kenya Kwanza over her innovative online tool Civic Email, a platform that helps Kenya present their opposing views against the proposed Finance Bill 2025.
In a statement by the Rigathi Gachagua led Party, they say the detention of the activist implies a move by the Kenya Kwanza government heading towards dictatorship, as it reflects intentions to suppress public civic education among youths in the country.
“The arrest of Rose Njeri, Whose only offense was educating Kenyans about the Finance Bill 2025, is a clear sign of a government increasingly leaning towards dictatorship. This action reflects a desperate attempts to suppress public awareness and civic engagement, especially among the youth,” read the statement.
Additionally, DCP states that the arrest is a violation of the freedom of expression, that is clearly enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya, and further contradicts the recent apology offered by the President during the National Prayer Breakfast. DCP argues that instead of the government persecuting Kenyans creating awareness, they should protect them.
“This disturbing move not only violates fundamental freedoms, but also exposes the hollow nature of President Ruto’s recent apology to Gen Z, who were brutalized and killed during last year’s protests against the Finance Bill. If the government were truly remorseful, it would protect those who raise awareness, not persecute them!” Further read the statement.
They faulted Ruto and his new political friend Raila Odinga, for claiming to value youths voice, but at the same time silencing them. They demanded the release of Njeri unconditionally, as well as full compensation and accountability of all protesters injured, traumatized and killed during the Gen Z led protests.
DCP party remarks comes after Homabay Town legislator Peter Kaluma ,has called for the arrest and persecution of the activist, as Kenya is not nation governed by idle activism, but by rule of law and governed institutions and structures.
Similar sentiments were echoed by Nandi senator Samson Cherargei, who said activists are breaking laws to attract attention, celebrity status and donor funding to advance their activism career.
Njeri was arrested on Friday, May 31, in South B Nairobi, and still detained at the Pangani Police Station.
