Gachagua: DCP to rollout fundsdrive for arrested Gen Zs

DCP Leader Rigathi Gachagua interview in Boston, US/SCREENGRAB

Democratic for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has pledged to support efforts aimed at securing the release of Gen Z protesters arrested during the recent Saba Saba demonstrations in Kenya.

Speaking during an interview in Boston, United States, Gachagua said he would share the official paybill number for the DCP to enable well-wishers to contribute towards legal fees and bail for the young protesters.

Gachagua criticised the government’s approach to the arrests, particularly the decision to charge some of the young demonstrators with terrorism-related offences for what he described as simply standing up for their beliefs.

“I will share the official DCP paybill number. Our party is credible; any support we receive, whether from the US or elsewhere, will be used transparently and for the intended purpose. These funds will help ensure that all our children are freed and can return home, while our lawyers handle the legal processes,” he stated.

He emphasised the need for collective action, calling on Kenyans at home and in the diaspora to contribute whatever they can to help alleviate the burden on the families of those arrested.

He appealed for even small contributions, especially within the diaspora community, adding that even $10, $20, or $100 could make a significant difference.

“This fight is not mine alone. I cannot do it by myself, and even the leaders back home cannot manage it alone. We need to come together,” he said.

“No one will be forced to give. It’s purely voluntary, but anyone who feels moved to help should know that their support will go directly towards freeing our children so they don’t continue suffering in remand.”

Gachagua also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the lawyers who have volunteered their time and expertise to defend the arrested youth.

“I truly thank the lawyers who have come forward and are walking this difficult journey with us through the court process,” he said.

His remarks come amid the arraignment of dozens of protesters, most of them young people, who were arrested during the recent Saba Saba demonstrations.

Many of those arrested now face serious charges, including allegations related to terrorism — a move that has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups and sections of the opposition who argue the charges are excessive and aimed at silencing dissent.

In addition to the charges, the detained protesters have been slapped with hefty bail terms, further compounding the struggles of their families, who are already grappling with legal fees and the emotional toll of the arrests.