From streets to ballot: Boniface Mwangi eyes 2027 presidency

Boniface Mwangi, a vocal human rights activist known for his unwavering stance on justice and accountability, has officially declared his intention to vie for the presidency in the 2027 general elections.

The announcement was made during Katiba Day commemorations held on Wednesday at Ufungamano House in Nairobi.

Mwangi, who has long been a critic of poor governance and corruption, used the occasion to invite Kenyans to reflect on the country's 15-year journey since the Constitution was promulgated in 2010. He described his presidential bid as a step towards ushering in a new chapter for the country.

“To mark 15 years since the promulgation of the Constitution, let's gather to honour what we have done together, out of love for our country,” Mwangi said.

“We have always fought for a better country, and now it is time to unveil new possibilities of building that Kenya, a Kenya that works for all of us.”

Mwangi said he would only associate with individuals who have a clean record, stressing the importance of integrity in leadership.

"If I take this water and it is clean now, and I put a drop of urine, human waste, or cow dung, it will be contaminated. It will be a mistake for me to try to work with anyone who is contaminated," he said.

The activist insisted that real change in Kenya cannot be achieved by recycling individuals who have previously held positions in government without delivering tangible results.

He said his movement will be based on fresh leadership and clean governance.

Mwangi now joins a growing list of early contenders who have expressed interest in unseating President William Ruto in 2027.

Other names that have emerged include Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya and former Chief Justice David Maraga.

His campaign launch comes just weeks after he made headlines following his arrest in July. Mwangi was taken from his home in Lukenya, Machakos County, by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.

He was later charged under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, though the charges were dropped.

Authorities said Mwangi was suspected of being involved in organizing and facilitating acts considered terror-related.

According to investigators, electronic devices and documents were recovered from his residence, while a separate raid at his office, Mageuzi Hub in Hurlingham, allegedly turned up two unused teargas canisters and one blank 7.62mm round.

Among other items seized were nine assorted external hard drives, two laptops, company seals for Brave Media Ltd and Courage Ltd, a company stamp, six cheque books, and copies of stamp duty documents.

The arrest was linked to the nationwide protests held on June 25, during which several people lost their lives, public assets were destroyed, and security personnel were injured.

Authorities alleged Mwangi played a key financial and logistical role in the events.

Despite the arrest and the accusations that followed, Mwangi has remained defiant. His declaration to run for the presidency signals his determination to bring the fight for justice and equity into the political arena.