Manyatta MP Mukunji released on bail in Saba Saba protest case

Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji when he appeared at Kahawa Law courts to face terrorism charges. [Courtesy]

Manyatta Member of Parliament Gitonga Mukunji, journalist James Mbochi, and boda boda rider Stanley Mbuthi have been released on a cash bail of Sh300,000 each after being arraigned at the Kahawa Chief Magistrate’s Court.

The three had been arrested in connection with the July 7 Saba Saba protests and were accused of inciting the public to violence. 

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) had applied to detain them  for an additional 14 days to allow completion of investigations, but the court rejected the application and granted them bail.

Since his arrest, MP Mukunji had been held at Muthaiga Police Station while awaiting the court's ruling on the bail application. 

The prosecution claimed the three were under investigation for terrorism-related offences, including alleged recruitment and funding of violent groups linked to the protests.

In a related case, the court is expected to rule next Wednesday on whether Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leaders Wanjiku Thiga, Peter Wanjiru, and a third unnamed official will be granted bail. 

They are also being held over alleged involvement in organising and financing protest-related activities.