NAIROBI — More suspects tied to the recent Saba Saba protests have been charged across the country, as courts in at least seven counties processed cases ranging from vandalism and looting to obstruction of public roads and arson.
In Kirinyaga County, four individuals accused of setting fire to the Kirinyaga Central Constituency Development Fund (CDF) offices appeared before the Kerugoya Law Courts. The same court heard a separate case involving two suspects charged with breaking into and stealing from a supermarket in Kagumo Town.
In Embu, three suspects were charged at the Embu Law Courts for allegedly entering a building with intent to commit a felony. No pleas were reported in that case.
In Meru County, five suspects faced charges at the Tigania Law Courts for blocking a public road during the protest. All five denied the charges and were each granted a cash bail of KSh30,000 or an alternative bond of KSh50,000.
The largest number of arraignments occurred in Nakuru County, where 92 individuals were brought before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Nakuru town. They faced varying charges linked to the July 7 demonstrations, which turned violent in parts of the country.
Nairobi County also recorded high numbers. Thirty suspects were arraigned in various courts across the city. Prosecutors tied their cases to destruction of property and public disturbance during the protests. Case files were processed separately, and bail rulings varied depending on the charges.
In Trans Nzoia County, eight suspects appeared at the Kitale Law Courts. Each denied the charges and was released on a KSh50,000 bond. The matter was scheduled for mention on July 29, 2025.
Meanwhile, in Machakos County, 20 people were charged at the Mavoko Chief Magistrate’s Court. Most of the cases involved public disorder and damage to property during the demonstrations.
Authorities have linked the offenses to incidents that unfolded during the Saba Saba protests, which began as a national call for political and economic reforms but later saw a spike in violent confrontations, property destruction, and clashes with police in multiple towns.
Police have not confirmed the total number of arrests made countrywide, but court records from Wednesday alone place the figure at over 160 suspects. Many of the accused have denied the charges.
The Judiciary has pledged to ensure due process for all defendants, amid growing public interest in how authorities handle cases tied to civil unrest.
Further hearings and mentions are expected throughout July as investigations continue.
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