Six Activists Charged Over Nairobi ‘Coffin Demo’ That Blocked Traffic

Six activists were arraigned at Milimani Law Courts following a protest that disrupted traffic along Taifa Road in Nairobi on August 17.

The accused—Julius Kamau, Collins Otieno, Nyanjom Joshua, Mulinge Muteti, Michael Ngige, and Elisha Ochieng—face charges under Section 58(c) of the Road Act for deliberately obstructing vehicle movement.

Details of the Protest

The demonstration took place outside the office of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja at Jogoo House. The activists carried white wooden coffins marked "Why kill Kenyans?" along with crosses and placards demanding the IG's resignation. They highlighted concerns over alleged abductions, killings, and police failures to protect citizens.

During the protest, Julius Kamau chained himself to the Jogoo House gate, calling for freedom, justice, and equality before police removed him.

Legal Proceedings

• The prosecution stated that the activists placed two dummy wooden coffins and two crosses on Taifa Road, blocking traffic and forcing motorists to take alternative routes.
• They were arrested without a warrant by officers from Central Police Station during the protest.
• Defense lawyer Kevin Kang'ethe argued the activists were exercising constitutional rights to assemble and petition the government, emphasizing the peaceful nature of the demonstration.
• The prosecution did not oppose bail but requested a ban on further demonstrations while on bail, which the magistrate declined.
• Each activist was granted bail of Sh40,000 or a cash alternative of Sh3,000.
• The case is set for mention on August 31 for further directions.