Public Outcry Follows Arrest of Software Developer Rose Njeri in Kenya

Rose Njeri, a software developer, was arrested in Kenya, sparking outrage over police brutality and digital rights infringements. Detained for 72 hours without charge, Njeri’s case has attracted significant activist support, leading to widespread calls for her unconditional release and highlighted concerns about the government’s targeting of civic technology efforts. Her arrest is seen by many as part of a broader pattern of intimidation against critics.

The arrest of software developer Rose Njeri in Kenya has ignited widespread outrage, highlighting ongoing concerns over digital rights and police brutality. Detained for 72 hours, Njeri’s situation has drawn attention from activists who accuse the government of targeting civic tech initiatives aimed at enhancing transparency. Rights defenders view her arrest as part of a larger trend of suppressing freedom of expression in the country.

Njeri was reportedly arrested by a team of 15 officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), who invaded her home, conducted an aggressive search, and seized her electronic gadgets. Activist Boniface Mwangi, who visited her after the arrest, recounted, “We visited Rose Njeri, and she told us how 15 DCI officers arrested her. They ransacked… confiscating her phone, laptop and hard drives in the process.” Despite this, Mwangi described Njeri as remaining in good spirits, though she expressed anxiety over her children’s understanding of her situation.

The arrest stemmed from Njeri sharing a link on social media to a platform she developed, which enables Kenyans to engage with and comment on the proposed 2025 Finance Bill. This has sparked significant backlash online, prompting her supporters to rally outside Pangani Police Station, where she is being held. Attempts by her legal team to secure her release on police bail have so far met with frustration.

Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo commented on the situation, stating, “All efforts to secure her release on police bail have so far been frustrated by the officers in charge who are yet to cede to requests by counsel to release her.” Reports indicate that authorities at the police station are pointing fingers, claiming they lack the power to release Njeri since her arrest was conducted by DCI officers.

Vocal Africa’s CEO condemned the situation, labeling it as “a blatant attack on digital rights, freedom of expression and civic engagement.” Many activists are now calling for public action to pressure the authorities for Njeri’s release, advocating for texts to be sent to DCI Director Mohamed Amin.

The hope is for a duty court to function on Monday, which happens to be a public holiday, allowing Njeri to be presented in front of a magistrate. As Mwangi emphasized, “An innocent person spending several nights in police cells is a blatant violation of her rights.” He reiterated that accountability must extend to the officers involved in her arrest.

In recent months, rights organizations have raised alarms about President William Ruto’s administration, citing a disturbing pattern of intimidation against dissenters. This scrutiny has intensified following protests last year over taxation and corruption, during which security forces were accused of abusing their power.

Njeri’s ongoing detention has ignited a movement among digital rights advocates, with the hashtag FreeRoseNjeri trending online. Activists maintain that her arrest sets a dangerous precedent for the future of civic tech and rights in Kenya, calling urgently for her unconditional release and accountability from the authorities.

Rose Njeri’s arrest has triggered significant public outcry over police conduct and digital freedoms in Kenya. Activists and supporters are rallying for her immediate release, condemning the government’s actions as an assault on civic tech initiatives. As concerns grow regarding digital rights, the situation underlines the pressing need for accountability amidst increasing police scrutiny under President Ruto’s administration.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke