The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has responded to public outrage concerning the recent increase in terrorism charges brought against protesters.

In a press statement released on July 21, the office reiterated that the charges were lawful under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. "The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) acknowledges the ongoing national discourse sparked by recent legal actions following the events of 25th June 2025 and 7th July 2025," the statement read.

Although ODPP acknowledged the role of free speech and a "vibrant civil society", it emphasised that both needed to understand the framework of the Act, instead of interpreting it as efforts to suppress legitimate political expression.

The Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Renson Ingonga Photo ODPP ODPP further claimed that the suspects charged with terrorism had been accused of grave conduct that not only elicited fear but also threatened to cripple government operations.