Activist Francis Awino Onyango has strongly condemned the case brought against him at the Milimani Law Courts, terming it an attempt to intimidate and silence his ongoing activism and legal challenges involving Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Director General Prof. Erastus Kanga and broader state accountability issues.
Awino, a known activitist and Convener of Mtetezi Rights Group , had already filed a constitutional petition questioning procurement decisions and governance within KWS, raising concerns over transparency, accountability and integrity in the management of public resources.
His filings describe the case as one brought “in defence of the Constitution, the rule of law, integrity in public service and the public interest,” rather than for personal gain.
The activist was arrested on April 22, 2026, while on his way to submit documents related to the same matter, before being presented in court the following day.
The charges come barely two weeks after Awino was reportedly attacked by unknown individuals following his outspoken criticism of the ongoing fuel crisis, including sharp increases in pump prices and shortages that have affected Kenyans nationwide.
He was subsequently admitted at Karen Hospital.
In court, Awino strongly pushed back against the allegations, suggesting the case is intended to silence his activism and ruin his reputation.
“At the opportune time I will prove that this prosecution is motivated by malice,” he told the court.
He has also linked the developments to his calls for accountability in the energy sector, including his demand for the resignation of Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi over the fuel situation.
The court further heard that Awino has filed a separate petition challenging an insurance cover for KWS employees, which he claims was irregularly handled under the current leadership.
Despite the charges, the court granted him bail of Ksh200,000 or an alternative bond of Ksh1 million, allowing him to remain out of custody as the case proceeds.
The matter is set for mention on May 7, 2026, as the legal and political dimensions surrounding the activist continue to unfold.
