Former Deputy President Condemns Arrest of Civic Website Creator
He further described Njeri’s arrest as an attempt to “stifle their courage, their innovative spirit, and their belief in the power of their own voices.”
Former Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Photo/TV47 Digital.
By Edmond Khaemba
Former Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly denounced the arrest of software developer and activist Rose Njeri, accusing the government of suppressing dissent and targeting the nation’s youth.
Njeri, aged 35, was detained last week after launching Civic Email, a website designed to streamline public opposition to the controversial Finance Bill 2025.
The platform gained significant traction among young Kenyans for simplifying communication with elected representatives.
In a strongly worded statement on his official X account, Gachagua labeled the government’s actions as hypocritical. “Instead of celebrating her innovation and contribution to civic engagement, the state has chosen to make an example of her,” he wrote. “This is not just an attack on Rose—it is a continuation of the attack on the youth of this country.”
He further described Njeri’s arrest as an attempt to “stifle their courage, their innovative spirit, and their belief in the power of their own voices.”
Gachagua, ousted as Deputy President in October 2024, called for Njeri’s immediate release and urged Kenyans to unite against efforts to silence public voices.
The arrest has sparked widespread outrage, with activists and the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) rallying in support of Njeri, who remains in custody at Pangani Police Station.
LSK President Faith Odhiambo called the detention a “recurrence of dictatorship,” raising concerns about shrinking democratic space in Kenya.
Njeri’s family reported that police raided her home, seizing her electronic devices, and expressed worry for her health due to her anemia.
The case has drawn attention to ongoing tensions between the government and citizens opposing the Finance Bill, with many viewing Njeri’s arrest as a broader crackdown on dissent.
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