Police arrest activist Bob Njagi over alleged role in mobilising planned Gen Z protests

Human rights activist and Free Kenya Movement coordinator Bob Njagi has been arrested in Kitengela, a day before the planned nationwide Gen Z demonstrations, as police intensify efforts to prevent unrest.

Kajiado County Police Commander Alex Shikondi said Njagi was arrested on Wednesday over allegations that he was planning and inciting members of the public to attend Thursday's protests.

According to Shikondi, the arrest followed a video circulating on social media that allegedly showed Njagi urging young people to turn out in large numbers and participate in the demonstrations.

The police commander said such mobilisation could trigger violence, destruction of property and security breaches, particularly in Kitengela town.

Njagi is being held at a police station whose location police declined to disclose, citing security reasons.

Shikondi said security agencies had put in place adequate measures to maintain peace and order across Kajiado county during the June 25 protests.

He assured residents that their safety, businesses and property would be protected under heightened police security.

The police boss also urged members of the public to stay away from the demonstrations.

Njagi's arrest comes months after he was abducted alongside fellow activist Nicholas Oyoo in Kampala, Uganda, on October 1, 2025, while attending a political campaign event.

The two were later released after days in captivity.

Speaking at a press conference in Kitengela after his release last year, Njagi said he had been abducted in Mlolongo while travelling in a matatu from Nairobi's central business district to Kitengela, claiming masked men forced him into a vehicle.

Kitengela has previously witnessed violent scenes during protests, with several deaths reported in past demonstrations.

The history of unrest has prompted leaders, residents, clergy, investors and security officials to repeatedly call on residents not to stage demonstrations in the town.

They argue that criminal elements have in the past infiltrated peaceful protests, leading to violence, vandalism, attacks on residents and theft targeting innocent Kenyans.