DCI Confirms Arrest Of Bunge La Mwananchi Leader Over Anti-Ruto Remarks

Tension gripped Nairobi on Wednesday after the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed the arrest of Jacaranda Bunge La Mwananchi leader Evans Kawala, dismissing opposition claims that he had been abducted by state agents.

Kawala, 33, was arrested on Tuesday evening during an operation by detectives from the Operations Support Unit in the Kayole area, according to the DCI. 

Authorities say the activist was taken into custody over remarks allegedly directed at President William Ruto that investigators described as inflammatory and capable of inciting public unrest.

In a statement, the DCI claimed that videos and messages linked to Kawala had spread widely on social media, posing what it termed a danger to public order and national cohesion.

The arrest came hours after opposition figures accused the government of targeting critics. Siaya Governor James Orengo strongly criticised the administration, arguing that Kawala was being punished for openly demanding accountability from leaders.

"The suppression of dissenting voices will only deepen political tensions," Orengo warned.

Detectives maintained that the arrest was lawful and based on ongoing investigations. The DCI confirmed Kawala remains in custody and is expected to be arraigned once investigations are completed.

The controversy escalated following recent comments linked to a security breach incident involving President Ruto during a public event in Ganze, Kilifi County. 

The developments are likely to fuel fresh debate over national security, political criticism and constitutional freedoms ahead of the 2027 election cycle.