During the court session, the accused denied the charges brought against them, paving the way for the case to proceed to the next stage of the legal process.
The court’s decision to grant bail allows the accused to remain out of custody as they await further directions on the case.
The mention scheduled for May 14 is expected to provide an update on the progress of the matter and outline the next steps.
The arrests came amid heightened tensions during the protests, as demonstrators took to the streets to express their dissatisfaction with rising fuel costs.
Authorities had moved in to disperse the crowds, leading to the apprehension of several individuals.
Law enforcement agencies maintained that the arrests were carried out to restore order and ensure public safety during the demonstrations.
However, the arrests have also raised concerns among rights groups and sections of the public, with some questioning the handling of protesters and calling for respect for the right to peaceful assembly.
The demonstrations in Machakos were part of a broader wave of protests witnessed in different parts of the country, as citizens reacted to the fuel price adjustments and their effect on transport and commodity prices.
Legal experts note that cases arising from public demonstrations often hinge on whether the protests were conducted within the law and whether the rights of participants were upheld during enforcement operations.
For the accused, the focus now shifts to the upcoming court mention, where both the prosecution and defence are expected to outline their positions and possibly set timelines for the hearing.