Kenyan human rights advocate intends to run for president in 2027

Human rights advocate Boniface Mwangi, a leading figure in anti-government demonstrations in Kenya, announced on Wednesday that he intends to run for president in the 2027 election.

His campaign will see if the public’s backing for the protests that young Kenyans have spearheaded over the past two years can be turned into an electoral movement.

In 2017, Mwangi made an unsuccessful bid for parliament on a platform against corruption. He has developed a reputation for speaking out against abuses of human rights both in Kenya and beyond over the years.

“In many ways, our leadership has let us down. When he announced his intention to run for president, he remarked, “You pay taxes expecting service, or you’re supposed to pay bribes to get that same service.”

“So as we stand here, our country must be taken back into our hands.”

After visiting neighboring Tanzania to watch a trial in a treason prosecution against opposition leader Tundu Lissu, he was ejected in May.

Mwangi was accused by a Kenyan court in July of possessing tear gas canisters and one rifle bullet that were discovered in his house.

He entered a not guilty plea, calling the prosecution “a big shame” and claiming the authorities lacked any supporting evidence.

Kenya is scheduled to have elections in August 2027. The Independent Electoral Boundaries Commission, which certifies all candidates, must approve Mwangi’s candidacy.

Former Chief Justice David Maraga and Senator Okiya Omtatah have also declared their intention to run for president. William Ruto, the current president, also plans to run for reelection.

Two former deputy presidents and other former government officials are leading a group of opposition figures who plan to run for president.