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Software developer Rose Njeri has been released on a cash bail of Ksh. 100,000 after appearing before a Milimani court, where she was formally charged with unauthorized interference with a computer system.
Njeri, a tech professional based in Nairobi, was arrested earlier this week in connection with a website that authorities claim was used to mobilize public opposition to the controversial 2025 Finance Bill. The bill has sparked widespread debate and growing resistance across the country, particularly among youth and civil society groups.
In court, the prosecution alleged that Njeri’s involvement with the site violated provisions of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act. However, her defense team strongly denied the charges, describing the arrest as a threat to digital rights and freedom of expression.
“Rose Njeri is a developer, not a criminal,” her lead counsel told reporters outside the court. “She is being targeted for her skills and her role in giving Kenyans a platform to speak out.”
The case has quickly drawn public attention, with digital rights organizations and tech communities expressing concern over what they describe as a growing trend of intimidation against technologists and online activists.
Njeri’s next court appearance is scheduled for later this month, as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, opposition to the Finance Bill shows no signs of slowing down, with protests planned in several counties later this week. Civil society leaders have vowed to continue pushing back against what they describe as “punitive” tax proposals.
This case is likely to be closely watched as a test of how Kenya balances cybersecurity enforcement with constitutional protections of free expression and civic participation in the digital age.
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