In a dramatic turn of events, Manyatta Member of Parliament Gitonga Mukunji, who was arrested earlier this week in connection with the Saba Saba protests, has been released on bail. The legislator, alongside journalist James Mbochi and boda boda rider Stanley Mbuthi, was granted a cash bail of Sh300,000 each by the Kahawa Chief Magistrate’s Court today.
Mukunji’s arrest on Monday had sparked protests in his home county of Embu, with residents demanding his immediate release. He was apprehended on allegations of inciting violence during the nationwide Saba Saba demonstrations and had been held at Muthaiga Police Station pending a court ruling.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) had sought to detain Mukunji and his co-accused for an additional 14 days, citing ongoing investigations into “terrorism-related offences,” including alleged recruitment and funding of violent groups. However, the court rejected this application, paving the way for their release.
During the heated court proceedings, defence lawyers criticized the state for what they termed as the “weaponization of the judicial process for political purposes.” They argued that no specific charges had been filed, questioning the rationale behind bringing the matter before the Anti-Terrorism Court.
For Manyatta constituents and political observers, Mukunji’s release on bail marks a significant development in a case that has drawn considerable public attention. While investigations are expected to continue, today’s ruling allows the MP to return home, albeit with the legal proceedings still looming. The case continues to highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding recent protests and the government’s response to them.
Metropolitan 