DCP youth leader arrested for allegedly planning protests freed

Youths hold protests at Kiambu police station demanding the release of DCP youth leader Wanjiku Thiga. [George Njunge, Standard]

A court in Kiambu has freed DCP youth leader Wanjiku Thiga on a cash bail of Sh50,000 and surety of Sh200,000.

Thiga was arrested on July 1, 2025, for allegedly organising protests witnessed countrywide last week.

In her ruling, Magistrate Githu Kibiru noted that there was no evidence linking Thiga to organizing the protests nor was there proof of interfering with witnesses since none came forward and no investigation was done.

Justice Kibiru further ordered that the youth leader should not be re-arrested unless fresh evidence emerges.

Lawyers present under the Young Lawyers for Justice Consortium asserted that detaining citizens without clear charges or evidence undermines constitutional freedoms.

"As young leaders and lawyers we will stand for justice and defend the young people of this nation to the very end to ensure that this oppressive regime does not cartel their dreams," said Kirinyaga MP Njeri Maina.

The lawyers also opposed the state's application to hold Gen Z protesters for 21 days terming it illegal and unjustified.

They have also called for fresh protests on Monday, coinciding with Saba Saba Day, the anniversary of Kenya's fight for multiparty democracy.

They say the day's protest is about reclaiming that democratic spirit and demanding accountability from those in power.

The case will be mentioned again on August 6, 2025.