• Boniface Mwangi arrested for alleged facilitation of terrorism during protests.
• Police seized tear gas canisters and blank ammunition from Mwangi's property.
• His arrest has incited nationwide outrage and calls for his release.
• Protests followed the death of a political blogger in police custody.
• Kenya faces increasing tensions due to government crackdowns on dissent.

Kenyan police arrested prominent human rights activist Boniface Mwangi on July 20, 2025, on accusations of facilitating "terrorist acts" linked to deadly anti-government protests last month. These protests, ignited by public outrage over police brutality and rising living costs, resulted in over 50 deaths, including 19 from protests on June 25, where demonstrators clashed with authorities, according to Reuters and Africa News.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations reported that Mwangi was arrested at his home in Machakos County, where police seized unused tear gas canisters, a "7.62mm blank round," and various electronic devices. He faces additional charges for unlawful possession of ammunition, which has led to widespread condemnation across social media and the rise of the hashtag #FreeBonifaceMwangi, according to BBC and Reuters.

Mwangi denied the charges, asserting, "I am not a terrorist," amidst a growing sentiment among civil rights groups that his arrest is politically motivated. Activists argue that these accusations are aimed at suppressing dissent and curtailing free speech in Kenya, emphasizing that accusations of terrorism have been made against many critics of the government, as reported by Al Jazeera and BBC.

Following his arraignment, Mwangi was granted bail on July 21, leading to further protests in support of his release, as many believe the charges reflect a broader crackdown on citizens advocating for accountability and reform in Kenya. The protests originally stemmed from the death of political blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody, highlighting the urgent calls for reform and justice within civil society, according to Reuters and Africa News.