Kenyan Activist Rose Njeri Released on Bond After Finance Bill Protest

Kenyan Activist Rose Njeri Released on Bond After Finance Bill Protest Nairobi, Kenya – Activist Rose Njeri was released on a Ksh100,000 bond on June 3, 2025, after her arrest for creating a website designed to garner opposition to the Finance Bill 2025. Njeri's lawyers, led by prominent retired Chief Justice David Maraga, argued that the charges against her were unfounded and lacked legal basis. "The charges against Rose are a blatant attack on freedom of expression," stated Eric Theuri, one of Njeri's lawyers. "The website simply facilitated the sharing of opinions, a right guaranteed under Kenyan law." The website in question automatically generated and sent mass emails to members of parliament expressing opposition to the Finance Bill. Police investigations revealed the website's automated email functionality. Despite the charges, Njeri was released on bond, pending further legal proceedings. The court's decision underscores the ongoing debate surrounding freedom of speech and online activism in Kenya. The case highlights the tension between government regulations and citizen engagement in the digital age. Njeri's release is seen by many as a victory for freedom of expression, while the charges themselves raise concerns about the limits of online activism within the legal framework.