Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko on Friday, June 26 facilitated the release of close to 200 young protesters by paying a total of KSh200,000 in cash bail at the Milimani Law Courts.

The group had been arrested during Thursday’s Gen Z demonstrations and later arraigned on charges of obstructing traffic. The court released each accused person on a cash bail of KSh1,000 pending the hearing of their cases.

Accompanied by his lawyers, Sonko settled the entire bail amount, allowing the protesters to leave custody as they await further court proceedings.

Speaking after the release, the former governor said his decision was driven by a desire to support the young people, urging them to continue expressing their views peacefully and within the confines of the law.

The release comes against the backdrop of nationwide demonstrations led largely by Gen Z activists, who have been calling for greater accountability, improved governance and reforms on various national issues.

The protesters are expected to appear before the court on dates that will be communicated as the criminal proceedings continue.