FridayOL

Nairobi, Kenya – A Kenyan software developer and prominent activist, Rose Njeri, found herself in police custody over the Madaraka Day weekend following the creation of ‘Civic Email,’ a digital tool designed to empower citizens to voice their opposition to the controversial Finance Bill 2025. The incident has sparked widespread debate regarding freedom of expression and digital activism in Kenya.

Njeri, known for her advocacy work and technical expertise, developed Civic Email as a user-friendly platform allowing Kenyans to easily send pre-written, yet customizable, emails to their Members of Parliament (MPs) expressing concerns about the Finance Bill. The bill, which proposes significant tax increases and adjustments to existing financial regulations, has faced considerable public backlash.

The website gained rapid popularity, facilitating a surge in correspondence to parliamentarians. Sources close to Njeri indicate she was taken into custody without clear explanation, raising concerns about the government's response to citizen mobilization through digital channels. Her detention has been widely criticized by civil society organizations and human rights activists who argue it sets a dangerous precedent for stifling dissent.

“This is a blatant attempt to intimidate activists and silence critical voices,” stated a representative from the Kenya Human Rights Commission. “Rose Njeri’s work was purely aimed at facilitating citizen participation in the democratic process. Detaining her is a direct attack on freedom of expression and the right to petition the government.”

The Finance Bill 2025 itself has been a source of considerable contention. Key points of concern include increased taxes on mobile money transactions, fuel, and airtime, as well as proposed changes to income tax brackets. Critics argue these measures will disproportionately impact low-income earners and negatively affect the economy. Protests have erupted across the country, with citizens demanding the bill be withdrawn or significantly amended.

The government, however, maintains that the Finance Bill is necessary to address the country’s growing debt and ensure fiscal stability. They argue the proposed tax increases are crucial for funding essential public services and infrastructure projects. The debate highlights a fundamental disagreement on how to address Kenya’s economic challenges.

As of now, Njeri remains in custody, and her legal team is working to secure her release. The case is expected to draw significant attention and scrutiny, with many observers anticipating a legal battle over the constitutionality of her detention and the potential restrictions on digital activism. The incident underscores the ongoing tension between government efforts to maintain control and the growing power of citizens to organize and express their views through online platforms. The implications for future digital activism and freedom of expression in Kenya remain to be seen.