The man who became a social media sensation during last year's Gen Z protests is now a free man after a Nairobi court granted him bail.
Ezekiel Kyama Nzyoki, better known as "Mr Speaker Sir" to thousands of Kenyans who followed his dramatic antics at Parliament, was released on a Sh100,000 personal bond on Monday.
The court's decision came after Nzyoki was formally charged with damaging government property valued at a staggering Sh41 million.
The destruction allegedly happened during the youth-led demonstrations that rocked the country in 2024, with Parliament buildings becoming a major flashpoint for the protestors' anger.
According to court documents, Nzyoki is accused of being part of the crowd that caused significant damage to Parliament facilities during the height of the protests.
The exact nature of the damage has not been fully detailed in court, but sources indicate it involved destruction of furniture and fittings inside the parliamentary buildings.
The man who earned his nickname for repeatedly shouting "Mr Speaker Sir" during the protests, mimicking parliamentary procedure, maintained his composure as the court set the bond terms.
The personal bond means Nzyoki does not have to pay any money upfront but is legally bound to appear in court whenever required.
The case now moves to the next stage as investigations continue. Prosecutors have indicated they are still gathering evidence and witness statements to build their case against the accused. The matter is scheduled for mention in the coming weeks.
Nzyoki's release on such reasonable bond terms suggests the court did not consider him a flight risk. This is a relief to his family and supporters who had gathered outside the courtroom, anxiously waiting for the outcome of the proceedings.
The 2024 Gen Z were some of the most significant demonstrations in Kenya's recent history, with thousands of young people taking to the streets to voice their frustrations over the cost of living and governance issues.
Parliament became one of the central locations where protestors converged, leading to the destruction that Nzyoki is now accused of being part of.
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