Digital/ Politic: Kenyan activist detained for creating anti-tax tool amid public outrage

Kenyan authorities have sparked public fury after arresting software developer Rose Njeri, who built a digital tool to help citizens oppose the government’s controversial 2025 finance bill. Activists say Njeri was detained Friday during a police raid on her Nairobi home, where electronics were seized.

The bill, which critics warn will worsen living costs, has drawn comparisons to last year’s deadly protests over tax hikes, which forced President William Ruto to scrap the 2024 bill. At least 50 people were killed in the crackdown.

Njeri’s platform highlighted contentious clauses, including tax procedure amendments that could allow authorities to access personal data without court approval. It also enabled users to email lawmakers demanding the bill’s withdrawal.

Law Society of Kenya president Faith Odhiambo condemned Njeri’s detention as « dictatorial, » noting she hasn’t been presented in court due to a public holiday.

Activists protested outside the police station where Njeri is held, while Boniface Mwangi shared her distress over her children’s welfare.

Finance Minister John Mbadi defended replacing zero-rated essentials with tax-exempt status, admitting prices may rise but citing alleged trader fraud. The bill is set for parliamentary debate next week amid growing dissent.

Ruto recently apologized to youth for « missteps » and claimed all abducted protesters were returned a statement met with skepticism. The arrest has intensified fears of a renewed crackdown on dissent.