Former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga found himself teargassed at the Central Police Station on Saturday as he joined activists in demanding the release of those arrested during the Saba Saba protests. Mutunga, accompanied by activist Boniface Mwangi and others, faced commotion and one person sustained injuries during the incident.
Mwangi, a professional photojournalist, strongly condemned the actions of Officer in Charge (OCS) Moses Mutayi, accusing him of violating their right to peaceful protest and demonstration. Mwangi criticized President William Ruto and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua, stating that they were undermining the Constitution.
Earlier, Mwangi had expressed frustration with the current regime, highlighting the obstacles faced by former CJ Mutunga and veteran lawyer John Khaminwa in securing the bail release of the detained protesters. Victor Kamau, a commissioner from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, and city lawyer Lempaa Soyinka were also present at the police station.
The group of activists had gathered to demand the unconditional release of 32 individuals arrested during the Saba Saba protests in the central business district. Mwangi called on opposition leaders Raila Odinga and Martha Karua to intervene and ensure the release of the detained protesters.
The day prior, the retired Chief Justice had personally provided food and water for the activists in custody, expressing his belief that the police had erred in arresting the protesters, citing Article 37 of the Constitution of Kenya, which guarantees the right to picket and assemble peacefully.
Human rights organizations reported that over 17 protesters had been arrested, with numerous injuries reported. They demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all detained activists. Amnesty International emphasized that the police are bound by the Constitution to uphold and protect human rights, including the right to peaceful assembly, and should only resort to the use of force as a last resort to protect life, according to the National Police Service Act.