The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has confirmed the arrest of Justin Kinyua Mwangi, a blogger based in Kirinyaga County, following allegations of his abduction by hooded gunmen raised by opposition politicians.
DCI detectives apprehended Mwangi on August 4, 2026, in Wanguru Town, Mwea. The arrest relates to content he posted on social media, which authorities say constitutes hate speech and ethnic contempt under the National Cohesion and Integration Act.
Charges and Legal Framework
- Mwangi faces charges under Sections 13 and 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act.
- Section 13 addresses hate speech offenses.
- Section 62 covers ethnic contempt.
He is expected to be presented in court on August 5, 2026.
Opposition Leaders Raise Alarm
Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina, along with Senator Kamau Murango and MP David Mathenge, had earlier claimed that Mwangi was forcibly taken by unidentified hooded individuals, with his phone switched off and his whereabouts unknown.
Maina condemned what she described as political intimidation and vowed to defend constitutional rights, including freedom of expression and political affiliation. Senator Murango also criticized what he termed political persecution targeting young people with divergent views.
DCI Clarifies Circumstances
Contrasting the opposition's narrative, the DCI stated that Mwangi is in lawful police custody following his arrest related to his online activities. The agency dismissed claims of an unexplained disappearance or abduction.
Justin Kinyua Mwangi identifies himself on Facebook as a political storyteller and digital strategist and is linked to the Deputy President's camp led by Rigathi Gachagua.
