Morara Kebaso, a well-known Kenyan activist, was reportedly arrested at his office in Kahawa Sukari. According to witnesses and his legal team, the arrest was carried out by individuals dressed in civilian clothes. His lawyer, Pareno Solonka, has stated that the arrest is linked to recent events at Bomas of Kenya, specifically during a public participation forum regarding the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Arrest and Allegations
According to reports, Morara was apprehended when he arrived at his office, where individuals in plain clothes reportedly picked him up. These events have caused significant concern among his supporters, many of whom turned to social media to express their worries.
A police officer, who asked not to be named, confirmed that Morara was being questioned in connection with the disturbances at the public participation event held at Bomas. This event was part of the ongoing process related to a motion to impeach the Deputy President. The officer noted that authorities were investigating Morara’s involvement in the disruption of the event.
Morara himself took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express his frustration over the arrest. He stated, “I have been arrested over what happened at Bomas. Can you imagine? Does it even make sense? What is this now?” His post was filled with a tone of disbelief and exasperation, indicating his view that the arrest was unjustified.
The public participation event at Bomas on Friday was meant to allow citizens to engage in discussions around the proposed impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Morara was one of the attendees, but things quickly escalated when he was attacked by a group of individuals.
Upon arriving at the event, Morara faced hostility almost immediately. As he took his seat, an unidentified group began to hurl chairs at him. In the process, he sustained injuries to his head, neck, and legs. The chaos at the event was disruptive, and it appears that authorities are now investigating whether Morara played any role in instigating the violence or if he was simply a victim of the unrest.
Family and Legal Reactions
Following Morara’s arrest, his wife, Mercy Morara, confirmed the news through her social media account on X. She posted, “They have arrested @MoraraKebasoSnr again,” suggesting this was not the first time her husband had faced such actions from authorities. Mercy’s post added to the concern from Morara’s supporters, many of whom were already anxious about his welfare.
Morara’s legal team, led by lawyer Pareno Solonka, also reacted swiftly to the arrest. Solonka claimed that Morara had been forcibly taken from his office and “bundled” into a Subaru by individuals who did not identify themselves as law enforcement. Solonka expressed frustration over the manner of the arrest, questioning the legal basis for such action and insisting that his client was not responsible for the chaos at Bomas.
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Morara’s social media accounts have been actively managed since his arrest, with his team regularly updating the public on his situation. One of his social media handlers posted a message asking Kenyans to pray for him, highlighting the deep concern felt by his supporters.
The arrest of such a prominent activist has sparked a significant online discussion, with many questioning the government’s response to the events at Bomas. Some have argued that arresting activists like Morara could be an attempt to silence dissent and discourage public participation in political processes. Others have pointed out that his arrest may be part of a broader crackdown on those challenging the current political leadership.
The impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been a hotly debated topic in recent weeks, and the public participation event at Bomas was part of the wider process to gather input from citizens. The motion to impeach Gachagua stems from various allegations, although his supporters maintain that the process is politically motivated.
Public participation is a constitutional right in Kenya, allowing citizens to have a say in key political matters. However, the events at Bomas have highlighted the potential risks involved when emotions run high, and violence breaks out at what should be peaceful forums.
As investigations continue, it remains to be seen what evidence, if any, authorities will present against Morara regarding the chaos at Bomas. His legal team has vowed to challenge the arrest in court and demand a clear explanation from the authorities.
For now, Morara’s supporters, family, and legal representatives are rallying behind him, waiting for further updates on his situation. His arrest has also drawn attention to the broader issues surrounding freedom of speech, public participation, and the treatment of activists in Kenya.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications not only for Morara but for others engaged in political activism across the country. Many will be watching closely as the legal process unfolds, with hopes that justice will be served, whatever the final determination may be.
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