Activist Bob Njagi Arrested Ahead of June 25 Gen Z Commemoration Protests
Human rights activist and Linda Mwananchi movement member Bob Njagi has been arrested in Kajiado County, just hours before nationwide demonstrations planned to mark the anniversary of the Gen Z protests.
Reports indicate that Njagi was apprehended on Wednesday afternoon over allegations of incitement linked to the planned June 25 demonstrations, which are expected to take place across several parts of the country.
Confirming the arrest, Kajiado County Police Commander Alex Shikondi said security agencies acted after a video allegedly showing the activist making remarks deemed inflammatory surfaced on social media.
According to the police commander, the statements contained in the video were viewed as likely to encourage unlawful activities during the planned demonstrations.
“We arrested him after a video emerged in which he appeared to encourage members of the public, particularly young people, to participate in activities that could result in unrest and destruction of property,” Shikondi said.
Police allege that the remarks could have influenced youths to engage in acts of vandalism and destruction of businesses within Kitengela town during the demonstrations.
The county police boss further revealed that Njagi was being held at a police station within Kajiado County as investigations continue. However, he declined to disclose the specific station where the activist is being detained, citing security concerns.
Njagi’s arrest comes amid heightened security preparations ahead of Thursday’s demonstrations, which are intended to commemorate victims who lost their lives during the Gen Z-led anti-government protests witnessed in June 2024 and June 2025.
The activist became a nationally recognised figure following his alleged abduction in 2024 shortly after participating in demonstrations against the Finance Bill. His disappearance sparked widespread public concern and condemnation from human rights organisations before he later resurfaced.
He was also among Kenyan activists who attracted regional attention after being arrested in Uganda alongside fellow activist Nicholas Oyoo. The pair were accused of involvement in political activities linked to supporters of Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine during the country’s election period.
As tension builds ahead of the planned demonstrations, security agencies have intensified patrols and deployments in major towns and urban centres.
Shikondi assured residents and business owners that adequate measures had been put in place to maintain law and order.
“We have enhanced security in the area and residents should continue with their normal activities without fear. Anyone found engaging in criminal acts or destruction of property will face the law,” he stated.
The government has similarly warned that while citizens have a constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression, acts of violence, vandalism, and looting will not be tolerated.
Authorities have urged demonstrators to commemorate the anniversary peacefully, warning that any breaches of the law will attract swift action from security agencies.
Meanwhile, opposition to the planned protests has also emerged in several regions.
On Wednesday afternoon, hundreds of residents in Kisumu staged demonstrations opposing the recurring street protests. The group marched through parts of the city carrying banners calling for stability, economic recovery, and an end to frequent political demonstrations.
Some participants also advocated for a rotational presidency system, arguing that leadership opportunities should be shared among different regions of the country.
The developments underscore growing tensions ahead of the June 25 commemorations, with both supporters and opponents of the demonstrations taking increasingly visible positions as the country prepares for another politically charged day.
Also Read: Government on High Alert as Gen Z Activists Mobilise for Nationwide Demonstrations