Relief for Arrested Protesters as Court Grants KSh1,000 Bail to Over 200 Youths

Siaya Governor James Orengo has hailed the judiciary after courts ordered the unconditional release of a mother and her seven-month-old baby while granting cash bail of KSh 1,000 each to more than 200 youths arrested during recent demonstrations.

In a statement issued after the court proceedings, Orengo said the legal team which included Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo and several other advocates successfully secured the release of the detainees.

Justice has spoken, Orengo declared describing the court's decision as a major victory for constitutional rights and the rule of law.

According to the veteran lawyer and politician the legal team had moved swiftly to ensure that those arrested during the protests received fair treatment before the courts.

He particularly welcomed the unconditional release of the mother and her infant saying their detention had raised serious concerns among human rights defenders and members of the public.

Orengo further commended the judiciary for what he termed as its steadfast commitment to justice arguing that the courts had demonstrated independence despite heightened political tensions surrounding the recent protests.

We commend the courts for upholding fair judgment and firmly refusing to be weaponized by the state to punish political dissent, Orengo said.

He added that the ruling served as a reminder that the judiciary remains a critical pillar in safeguarding democracy and protecting citizens from abuse of power.

The judiciary has reminded us that the law must remain a shield for the innocent not a sword for the current regime's oppression, he stated.

The remarks come amid increasing debate over the handling of demonstrators arrested during anti-government protests across the country.

Human rights groups and legal organizations have repeatedly raised concerns over alleged excessive use of force, arbitrary arrests and prolonged detention of protesters.

Orengo maintained that peaceful protest is a constitutional right that should not be criminalized in a democratic society.

Criminalizing protest has no place in our constitutional democracy.

We remain vigilant and unbowed, he said.

The senior counsel concluded his statement with the liberation slogan, "Aluta Continua," signaling that the fight for civil liberties and constitutional freedoms would continue.

The latest court ruling is likely to intensify discussions on the balance between maintaining public order and protecting fundamental freedoms guaranteed under Kenya's Constitution.