Tension at Thika Law Courts as protest-linked arrests spark outrage

Thika, July 16, 2025 

Chaotic scenes unfolded at the Thika Law Courts on Tuesday as dozens of youth arrested over recent protests were arraigned, triggering emotional reactions from families and renewed debate over police conduct and the government’s handling of dissent.

Among the key incidents was the dramatic arrest of a prominent activist, known on social media platform X as "Prince Bahaa", who had attended the court proceedings in solidarity with the accused. 

Witnesses reported that police officers forcibly removed the activist from the courtroom, sparking murmurs of disapproval from those present. The activist, known for his vocal stance against police brutality online, was reportedly not involved in the legal proceedings.

Approximately 50 youth were arraigned in connection with protests that took place between June 25 and July 7, including during the nationwide Saba Saba demonstrations. They were charged with robbery with violence, a capital offence under Kenyan law. 

The court set stringent bail terms: a cash bail of KSh. 100,000 or a bond of KSh. 300,000 with one surety. Many of the accused were unable to raise the bail, resulting in continued detention. 

However, minors among the group were released.

Outside the courtroom, emotional scenes played out as distressed family members, mainly mothers, who staged a spontaneous protest, demanding the release of their children. Some reportedly threatened to strip in public, a culturally symbolic act of grief and desperation in Kenya.

Online observers described the atmosphere as "extremely sad," capturing the intensity of the moment.

Further tensions rose due to restricted public access to the courtroom. Crowds gathered outside, were barred from attending the proceedings, adding to the sense of exclusion and mistrust among supporters and families.

The events in Thika are part of a wider national context of growing unrest and crackdowns on protests. 

According to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, 1,500 individuals had been arrested by July 15 for protest-related activities. Of those, 50 were under investigation for serious crimes, while 71 were reportedly under review by anti-terror units.

The unfolding situation continues to raise concern among civil society groups and human rights defenders, who have condemned the harsh responses to largely peaceful protests.