The Bloggers Association of Kenya (BAKE) has condemned the arrest of content creators covering protests against the contentious Finance Bill, 2024.

Expressing dismay over the incidents, BAKE demanded the release of all content creators currently being held by the police.

BAKE Chairman Kennedy Kachwanya termed the action by police a blatant disregard for the law and a worrying attempt to stifle freedom of expression.

"The Kenyan Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of expression, including the right to hold opinions and to receive and impart information without interference. The recent arrests create a chilling effect on free speech, sending a message to all Kenyans that critical voices will be silenced." said Kachwanya.

"Content creator @_CrazyNairobian was arrested on Friday and it is unclear where he is being held and the reason for his arrest. We urge the Kenyan government to uphold the law and ensure that those arrested are afforded their right to a fair trial. We also have information that the Government plans to arrest more content creators for their role in the recent protests against the Finance Bill 2024."

BAKE further called upon the Government to ensure that no content creators or any Kenyan for that matter will be arrested for expressing their opinion online or for supporting a protest.

"Kenya has a documented history of being a champion of free speech in Africa. These recent actions threaten to undermine that reputation. We urge the Kenyan government to live up to its commitments and ensure a free and open society for all."