Veteran lawyer John Khaminwa on Friday joined Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo in representing youths arrested during the Gen Z anniversary protests.The experienced advocate became part of a legal team that appeared at Milimani Law Courts to defend hundreds of protesters who had been detained following Thursday’s nationwide demonstrations.
The proceedings attracted significant public interest, with relatives, supporters and human rights advocates gathering at the court to follow the outcome of the cases.
Following the court session, Governor Orengo announced that the legal team had secured the unconditional release of a mother and her seven-month-old baby who had been among those arrested.
He also disclosed that more than 200 youths were granted a cash bail of KSh1,000 each, allowing them to secure their temporary release as the legal process continues.
In a statement shared on social media, Orengo praised the judiciary for what he described as an impartial decision that upheld the principles of justice and the rule of law.
He said the court had demonstrated its independence by ensuring the judicial process was guided by the Constitution rather than political considerations.The governor further argued that peaceful demonstrations are protected under Kenya’s Constitution and maintained that citizens should not face criminal sanctions for exercising their constitutional rights.
Babu Owino, Faith Odhiambo and Khaminwa were among several advocates who offered legal representation to the protesters, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring those arrested received fair hearings before the courts.
The Gen Z anniversary demonstrations were held across several parts of the country to commemorate those who lost their lives during the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests.