Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi has been released on bail following his arrest on charges of possessing ammunition and inciting unrest during anti-government protests.

Mwangi, a prominent human rights campaigner, was initially accused of “facilitating terrorist acts”, a charge he strongly denied. Police said they recovered tear gas canisters, a blank firearm round, electronics and notebooks from his home and office in Nairobi.

The 42-year-old photojournalist’s arrest – which is linked to protests on 25 June that left at least 19 people dead – drew widespread condemnation. A coalition of rights groups called the terrorism claims an “abuse of the justice system” and said it reflected a growing government crackdown on dissent.

In court, Mwangi called the prosecution “a big shame” and thanked supporters who packed the gallery, many waving Kenyan flags. His lawyer welcomed the bail decision.

More than 100 people have died in protests against President William Ruto’s administration since last year, with allegations of abductions, torture and police brutality continuing to emerge.

Mwangi, who has previously faced detention and ran for a seat in parliament on an anti-corruption platform, is also pursuing a regional human rights case after alleging mistreatment by Tanzanian authorities earlier this year.

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