Former Chief Justice David Maraga has criticised the government following the arrest of software developer and activist Rose Njeri, saying the move undermines the essence of Madaraka Day.

In a strongly worded statement released on Sunday, Maraga said Njeri's arrest represents a tragic irony on a day meant to celebrate internal self-rule and democratic freedoms.

“Ms. Rose Njeri is the latest to be abducted for allegedly innovating an accessible system for citizens to express their views on the Finance Bill 2025. This completely negates the spirit of Madaraka,” Maraga said.

Njeri was arrested on Friday afternoon in South B and taken to Pangani Police Station.

Her online platform, Civic Email, enabled citizens to easily send formal objections to MPs regarding controversial provisions in the proposed Finance Bill 2025.

Her detention—without charges or bail—has drawn fierce backlash from civil society, digital rights activists, and youth groups across the country.

In his statement, Maraga lamented the deteriorating state of democratic freedoms, particularly for Kenya’s younger generation.

“There is nothing for the youth of Kenya to celebrate this Madaraka Day,” he stated.

“Youth unemployment is still soaring, livelihood opportunities keep shrinking, while a minority of the political elite live in opulence, straddling the young majority into servitude.”

As Kenyans marked the 62nd Madaraka Day at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, Maraga urged a national reckoning with the values of justice and freedom.

“The country needs to rejuvenate the true spirit of Madaraka,” he said, calling for reflection and action during what he termed ‘Gen Z Revolution.’”

“Today, we begin a solemn month of reflection in memory of the lives of more than 60 young people killed in June 2024,” he continued.

“It is a month to stand in solidarity with those injured and abducted, and to comfort the families of those who lost their loved ones to police brutality.”  By Allan Kisia, The Star