Morara Kebaso, the leader of the Inject Kenya ni Home movement, was arrested by men believed to be police officers at his offices in Kahawa Sukari. Witnesses say the officers, some wearing masks, refused to reveal their identities and confiscated Kebaso's electronic devices. His lawyer, Pareno Solonka, posted on social media that they have been denied access to their client, who has been taken to Nairobi Area Police. The arrest sparked a social media campaign calling for his release and criticism of the government's attempts to silence activists pushing for accountability.
Morara Kebaso: Activist Arrested Amidst Backlash Over Inject Kenya ni Home Movement
Morara Kebaso, a prominent activist and leader of the Inject Kenya ni Home movement, was arrested on August 25, 2023, by unidentified men believed to be police officers. The incident sparked outrage and raised concerns about the government's suppression of dissent.
Background:
The Inject Kenya ni Home movement advocates for increased government investment in affordable housing and the provision of basic services in informal settlements. Led by Kebaso, the movement has organized protests and petitions, drawing attention to the plight of the urban poor.
Arrest and Detention:
According to witnesses, Kebaso was arrested at his offices in Kahawa Sukari by masked men who refused to identify themselves. They seized his electronic devices and transported him to the Nairobi Area Police Station. His lawyer, Pareno Solonka, reported that they were denied access to their client.
Government Response:
The government has not officially commented on the arrest. However, Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i previously warned that the government would take stern action against individuals inciting violence or undermining the rule of law.
Social Media Campaign:
The arrest ignited a social media campaign calling for Kebaso's release. Activists, politicians, and ordinary citizens expressed solidarity and condemned the government's crackdown on dissent.
FAQs:
1. Who is Morara Kebaso? Morara Kebaso is a Kenyan activist, architect, and leader of the Inject Kenya ni Home movement.
2. Why was Morara Kebaso arrested? The exact reasons for Kebaso's arrest remain unknown, but his activism has been linked to government concerns about potential civil unrest.
3. What is the Inject Kenya ni Home movement? Inject Kenya ni Home is a movement that advocates for affordable housing and basic services for informal settlements in Kenya.
4. Is Kebaso's arrest a sign of government suppression of dissent? Some activists believe Kebaso's arrest is a warning to other critics of the government, while others argue that it is an isolated incident.
5. What is the current status of Kebaso's case? Kebaso remains in police custody as of August 26, 2023, and has been denied access to his lawyer. His next court appearance is scheduled for August 28, 2023.
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