Boniface Mwangi released after arrest for allegedly organising a revolution

Activist Boniface Mwangi has been released following his arrest by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Monday mid-morning.

According to a statement signed by George Muchiri; a DCI officer attached to Central Police Station, Mwangi was taken into custody over his role into the “alleged organisation of revolution likely to cause civil unrest and breach of peace.”

“I have reasons to believe that you, Boniface Mwangi, have information that may assist me with the inquiry,” added Mr. Muchiri.

However, Mwangi, in his response, stated: “I have understood the question raised by the inquiry but I have nothing to say. That is all I wish to state for now.”

The photojournalist-turned-activist was whisked away following a raid on his home by the DCI officers on Monday. He was then taken to Central Police Station where he was held until the time of his release.

While announcing his freedom on social media, Mwangi said: “Kenyans are angry, hungry and broke. They feel like revolting against bad governance and corruption, and the government is afraid it’s going to happen. Revolution is not treason.”

Thank you everyone for your voices. l have been released! Kenyans are angry, hungry and broke. They feel like revolting against bad governance and corruption, and the government is afraid it’s going to happen. Revolution is not treason. pic.twitter.com/Utpw5MbJJc

— Boniface Mwangi (@bonifacemwangi) May 6, 2019

The arrest of the former Starehe parliamentary aspirant was linked to the recent protest against corruption held at Uhuru Park dubbed #BeyondZeroCorruption led by a group of individuals referring to themselves as the ‘Red Vests.’

One of the protesters – Bettie Wa Shiro – was arrested following the April 30 demonstrations and Mwangi is said to have been instrumental in securing her release.

Mwangi reportedly led a group of human rights activists that camped and lit candles at the Central Police Station following Bettie’s arrest on April 30 until she was released early morning on May 1.