The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has called on the release of Kenyans who were arrested on Thursday, August 8, 2024, following the Nane Nane protests.

ODM says that the right to pick is anchored on the constitution, and thus the arrested ought to be released.

“As a party, we believe in adherence to the provisions of the Constitution by the citizens of Kenya, the right to hold peaceful demonstrations notwithstanding, and in accordance with the provisions of the law.

“With this background, the ODM Party is asking for the unconditional release of the over seventy Kenyans who were arrested yesterday during the public protests in Nairobi and other parts of the country,” a statement released by the opposition party read in part.

The youth organised and attempted to protest, especially within Nairobi’s CBD, but faced the security agencies who did not allow them to demonstrate. In the end, some were arrested and still remain in the hands of the police. ODM says their release must be unconditionally undertaken forthwith.

“The freedom of expression is embedded in the Constitution of Kenya. Public picketing and protesting are requirements under Article 37 of the Constitution of Kenya. Therefore, Kenyans are allowed by law to picket and present petitions to the government on what they feel is not being done right, put their demands to government, and make their case heard.

“The majority of them are being held at the Central Police Station in Nairobi. It is worth noting that some of those arrested are persons living with disabilities (PWDs). We call on the relevant authorities to have them released immediately,” the statement added.

On August 9, Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo said some of the arrested were taken to Kamukunji and Central Police Stations and were yet to be arraigned in court.

“This morning, we visited Central Police Station, where at least 60 people were detained overnight after being arrested during yesterday’s demonstrations. We have been informed that they will all be arraigned at City Court later today, and we will be in court to secure their release.

“The 25 people that were held at Kamukunji Police Station will be arraigned at Milimani. We call upon all our volunteer advocates to join both in Milimani and City Court to secure the release of the comrades,” Odhiambo said in a post on her X handle.

She added that additional teams will be sent to Kileleshwa, Gigiri, Buruburu, and all other police stations where protesters are held.