Human rights activist Bob Njagi has been freed after a court in Kajiado dismissed a treason case that had been brought against him.
The decision came on Thursday when the Kajiado Law Courts ruled that the prosecution had failed to provide enough evidence to support the charges.
In her ruling, the Principal Magistrate struck out the case and ordered that the file be closed.
The court found that investigators from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) had not established a case strong enough to proceed against the activist.
The ruling marked the end of a legal battle that had attracted public attention following Njagi’s arrest last month.
He had been taken into custody in Kajiado County on June 24 over allegations connected to the June 25 Gen Z anniversary protests.
Authorities claimed that a video he shared on social media encouraged demonstrations that could result in the destruction of property and public disorder.
Njagi’s legal team included several prominent figures, among them Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Senator Dan Maanzo and advocate Erick Ngunjiri.
Following the court’s decision, Owino welcomed the outcome and said it was important for investigators to ensure they have sufficient evidence before bringing charges against individuals.
According to the defence team, the case lacked a solid legal basis from the beginning.
They argued that the accusations against Njagi did not meet the required threshold for a criminal prosecution and maintained that his actions were protected under constitutional freedoms.
Njagi’s arrest had drawn criticism from human rights organisations and members of the public.
Many questioned the treatment of activists and protesters in the aftermath of the nationwide demonstrations that were held to mark the anniversary of the Gen Z protests.
Rights groups raised concerns about what they described as increasing pressure on individuals who express dissent or participate in public demonstrations.
The court’s decision is likely to renew discussions about the balance between maintaining public order and protecting constitutional rights such as freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
For Njagi, the ruling brings an end to the case and clears him of the charges that had been brought against him.
The dismissal of the case also serves as a reminder of the role courts play in examining evidence presented by investigators and ensuring that legal proceedings are supported by sufficient proof before they move forward.
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