Kenya's Government Under Fire for Labeling Protesters as Terrorists

Strategic Insights -

Kenyan President William Ruto's government has come under intense scrutiny after accusing anti-government protesters of terrorism, a move critics argue is meant to intimidate and silence dissent. The decision to invoke the Prevention of Terrorism Act has been met with sharp condemnation from human rights groups, lawyers, and opposition leaders. As public discontent grows over high taxes, rising living costs, and perceived broken promises, the government is facing pressure to address grievances rather than resorting to criminalization. Since June 2025, nearly 1,500 people have been arrested, with dozens charged with terrorism and malicious damage to property.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Kenyan government has slapped anti-government protesters with terrorism charges, sparking widespread criticism from human rights groups and opposition leaders.
  • The Prevention of Terrorism Act, crafted to combat groups like Al-Shabaab, is being used to criminalize protest, with critics arguing this sets a bad precedent.
  • Nearly 1,500 people have been arrested since June 2025, with dozens charged with terrorism and malicious damage to property.
  • The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) defended the charges, saying the acts were "calculated and coordinated" attacks on government operations, but accused individuals will still be accorded a fair trial and due process.
  • Activist Boniface Mwangi's arrest and subsequent charges were criticized by rights groups, who argue the government is using terrorism charges to silence dissent.
  • Civil society organizations have condemned the state's actions, warning of a shrinking democratic space and calling for the immediate withdrawal of terrorism charges against protesters.
  • Legal experts warn that applying the Prevention of Terrorism Act in this context marks a bad precedent, and could backfire politically as the 2027 elections approach.

Statistics:

  • Nearly 1,500 people have been arrested since June 2025.
  • Dozens have been charged with terrorism and malicious damage to property.
  • Activist Boniface Mwangi was initially set to face terrorism charges, but was later accused of illegally possessing ammunition and teargas canisters.
  • Mwangi was released on a Sh1 million bond after pleading not guilty.

Sources:

  • Capital FM 2025
  • AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com)