Activist Francis Awino Onyango has condemned the criminal case against him.
The Mtetezi Rights Group convener says the prosecution aims to intimidate him and stop his activism.
He also claims the case targets his legal challenges against Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Director General Prof. Erastus Kanga and other public officials.
Mtetezi rights group legal fight against KWS
Awino has already filed a constitutional petition challenging procurement decisions and governance at KWS.
He says the petition seeks greater transparency, accountability, and integrity in the management of public resources.
According to his court filings, he filed the case to defend the Constitution, uphold the rule of law, and protect the public interest.
Arrest and court appearance
Police arrested Awino on April 22, 2026, as he travelled to file documents related to the petition.
Authorities presented him before the Milimani Law Courts the following day.
Awino argues that the prosecution seeks to silence his activism and damage his reputation.
“At the opportune time I will prove that this prosecution is motivated by malice,” he told the court.
Activist links charges to energy sector campaign
Awino says the charges came about two weeks after unknown people attacked him.
The attack followed his criticism of the fuel crisis, rising pump prices, and fuel shortages affecting Kenyans.
Doctors later admitted him to Karen Hospital for treatment.
He also links the case to his campaign for accountability in the energy sector.
Awino has repeatedly called for the resignation of Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi over the fuel crisis.
Additional petition and bail
The court also heard that Awino filed another petition challenging an insurance cover for KWS employees.
He claims the current KWS leadership handled the insurance arrangement irregularly.
Despite the charges, the court granted Awino bail of KSh200,000 or an alternative bond of KSh1 million.
The ruling allows him to remain free as the case continues.
Next court date
The court scheduled the matter for mention on May 7, 2026.
The legal proceedings continue as questions over the activist’s prosecution and his constitutional petitions remain before the court.
