Govt Drops Terrorism Charges Against Activist Boniface Mwangi
In a dramatic turn of events, the Kenyan government has officially dropped terrorism charges against renowned activist Boniface Mwangi. The popular human rights defender was arrested on Saturday, July 19, 2025, in what many believed to be a politically motivated crackdown.
However, in a surprise move at Kahawa Law Courts on Monday morning, the prosecution filed new charges—this time accusing him of illegal possession of ammunition. This decision has sparked mixed reactions across the country.
According to a charge sheet seen by Kenyans.co.ke, Mwangi now faces two counts under the Firearms Act.
“On July 19, 2025, at Mageuzi Hub in Nairobi County within the Republic of Kenya, you were found in possession of noxious substances, to wit, three teargas cannisters without lawful authority,”
Count One Reads.
“On July 19, 2025, at Mageuzi Hub in Nairobi County within the Republic of Kenya, you were found in possession of one round of 7.62×21mm blank ammunition without lawful authority,”
Count Two Reads.
Despite the gravity of the new charges, Mwangi appeared calm in court, dressed in a grey hoodie and jeans, flanked by his legal team and surrounded by supporters.
Speaking outside the courtroom, the activist maintained his innocence and accused the government of silencing dissent.
“This is nothing but intimidation. They dropped terrorism because they had no case. Now they’re trying to save face,”
Mwangi Told Journalists.
He added that he will not be cowed, vowing to continue fighting for truth and justice in Kenya.
“Even if they jail me, I will still speak out. Kenya belongs to all of us—not just the powerful,”
He Declared Boldly.
Many Kenyans have taken to social media, expressing outrage and solidarity. Civil society groups also condemned the fresh charges, calling them “a desperate attempt to harass and derail the activist’s mission.”
Legal experts argue that the new charges may also collapse due to lack of evidence and procedural flaws.
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Govt Drops Terrorism Charges Against Activist Boniface Mwangi
