The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga has officially approved charges against five individuals linked to the planning, mobilizing, and financing of the youth-led anti-government protests that took place in June 2024. The individuals, all allies of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, are set to face serious charges, including conspiracy to commit a felony.
In a letter dated September 26, 2024, and addressed to Amin Mohamed, the Director of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the DPP stated that a thorough review of the evidence indicated sufficient grounds to proceed with legal action against the suspects.
The letter emphasized that the suspects will be charged under section 393 of the Penal Code, which deals with conspiracy to commit a felony.
The DPP’s directive follows a recommendation by the DCI to bring charges against the five, who include Members of Parliament Benjamin Gathiru Mwangi (Embakasi Central) and James Mwangi Gakuya (Embakasi North).
The other implicated individuals are George Theuri, Ngunjiri Wambugu, and Pius G. Munene, all of whom are either allies or aides of Deputy President Gachagua.
In addition to the conspiracy charges, the DPP has instructed that a separate inquiry file be opened to investigate potential money laundering and financial crimes related to the protests.
This could lead to additional charges against the suspects under the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act.
Specifically, MP Benjamin Gathiru Mwangi faces further accusations of soliciting or inciting others to commit an offense, a violation of section 391 of the Penal Code. The money laundering charges against him will be brought under sections 3, 4, and 7 of the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act, reflecting the seriousness of the financial aspects of the case.
The June protests, which drew significant attention both locally and internationally, were marked by widespread youth participation and were seen as a direct challenge to the government.
These new developments highlight the government’s determination to address what it perceives as unlawful attempts to destabilize the country.
The approval of these charges by the DPP sets the stage for what is likely to be a high-profile legal battle, as the implicated individuals prepare to defend themselves against the serious allegations.
The case will be closely watched as it unfolds, given its potential implications for Kenya’s political landscape and the broader issue of political accountability.
Anti-Government Protests