Outrage in Kenya: Siaya Governor Slams “Terrorism” Charges Against Activist Boniface Mwangi

Public and Legal Experts Say Government Is Silencing Political Voices 

Siaya Governor James Orengo has strongly criticized the Kenyan government over its decision to charge human rights activist Boniface Mwangi with terrorism. His statement came just days after Mwangi’s arrest on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at his home in Lukenya, Machakos County, under mysterious circumstances. 

Orengo, a respected lawyer and politician, said the charges against Mwangi were “ridiculous” and made no legal or logical sense. He argued that it was wrong to associate activism and political expression with terrorism.  

“By stretch of any tortured legal definition and factual foundation, it’s ridiculous to charge Boniface Mwangi and our children who have demonstrated a high level of political consciousness with terrorism,” Orengo stated on his official social media pages. 

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) later released a statement saying that Mwangi’s arrest was linked to alleged terrorist activities during the June 25 protests. According to the DCI, Mwangi is accused of facilitating acts of terror during demonstrations that were held to honor youth killed in earlier protests. 

The DCI further alleged that officers found suspicious items in Mwangi’s possession, including two unused tear gas canisters and one 7.62mm blank round. However, Mwangi’s legal team has denied these claims and accused authorities of planting the evidence to support harsh and unjust charges. 

Governor Orengo responded with a firm message that political action should never be labeled as terrorism. “Protected speech and political action should never be criminalised,” he insisted, warning that this trend could harm Kenya’s democracy and freedom of expression. 

In the lead-up to the June 25 protests, Mwangi had used his social media platforms to encourage the public to participate in honoring the memory of young Kenyans who died in anti-government demonstrations one year ago. His posts reached thousands and sparked renewed political engagement among the youth. 

Human rights groups and civic organizations have since joined the growing number of voices demanding Mwangi’s immediate release. They argue that the arrest is part of a larger crackdown by the state targeting vocal activists and opposition voices. 

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has confirmed that Mwangi is not the only person being charged with terrorism. On Wednesday, eight other individuals were charged in connection with the burning of the Mawego Police Station. Their trial is set to continue on July 22. 

Legal experts and civil society members warn that Kenya may be entering a dangerous phase where peaceful protest and political speech are punished as acts of terrorism. They say this not only undermines the constitution but also threatens the rights of all citizens to speak freely. 

Boniface Mwangi is expected to appear in court on Monday, July 21, where formal charges will be read. His supporters are already organizing peaceful demonstrations to show solidarity and demand justice. 

This unfolding case has ignited national and international concern. Observers fear that labeling activists as terrorists could discourage political engagement and scare ordinary citizens from speaking out. 

Governor Orengo’s comments reflect broader frustration within Kenya’s political and legal circles. Many are now calling on the government to drop the charges and respect the democratic rights of its people. 

As Kenyans watch how this case unfolds, one thing remains clear: the battle for freedom of expression and human rights is far from over.