By Faith Chebotip
Rose Njeri, a Kenyan software developer, has been charged with cybercrime after building an online platform that enabled citizens to submit feedback on the controversial 2025 Finance Bill. The website, https://civic-email.vercel.app, reportedly generated mass emails directed at official parliamentary inboxes—activity authorities claim caused disruptions to government systems.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Njeri’s platform sent multiple automated emails to members of the Finance Committee and the Clerk of the National Assembly. “The system was interfered with due to mass emails,” a detective involved in the case stated.
Njeri was arrested on Friday and detained at Pangani Police Station. However, controversy escalated on Tuesday morning when the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) reported she had been transferred from the station under unclear circumstances. “She was moved minutes before 7:30 a.m. without notice to her legal team,” said LSK President Faith Odhiambo, raising concerns about due process and transparency.
The arrest sparked public outcry, with dozens of activists and civil society groups gathering outside Milimani Law Courts to protest what they describe as the criminalization of civic engagement. Amnesty Kenya issued a strong statement condemning the arrest, saying, “It is clear to us that Rose Njeri’s rights have been severely violated.”
Supporters argue that Njeri’s platform was a digital tool for democratic participation, not a cyber threat. “She gave us a voice. That is not a crime,” said one protester holding a placard outside the courtroom.
Njeri eventually appeared in court on Tuesday afternoon, where she faced charges under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act. Her lawyers are expected to challenge the basis of the charges in upcoming proceedings.
As Kenya debates the Finance Bill and the broader role of technology in civic discourse, Njeri’s case is rapidly becoming a flashpoint in the conversation about digital rights, freedom of expression, and government accountability.
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