NAIROBI — Kenyan police fired volleys of teargas at angry protesters in downtown Nairobi on Tuesday, as grief and fury swept through the capital following the suspicious death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang while in police custody. The 31-year-old’s death has sparked renewed outrage over alleged extrajudicial killings and police abuse issues that have plagued Kenya’s law enforcement for decades.
Death in Custody Sparks Nationwide Outcry
Albert Ojwang, a well-known digital commentator and part-time educator, was arrested earlier this month after a complaint was filed by Deputy Police Chief Eliud Lagat. Two days later, he was pronounced dead. Initial police reports claimed he had taken his own life in detention—a claim now discredited by an independent autopsy, which confirmed assault wounds as the likely cause of death.
Facing mounting public pressure, Kenya’s police chief issued an apology, while President William Ruto publicly acknowledged that Ojwang “died at the hands of the police,” calling it both “heartbreaking and unacceptable.”
Chaos in the Streets: Protesters vs. Motorcyclists
What began as peaceful demonstrations quickly turned chaotic. Teargas choked the streets of Nairobi as police tried to disperse protesters demanding justice for Ojwang. The atmosphere turned more sinister when unidentified motorcyclists, many carrying hooded passengers, attacked demonstrators.
Amnesty International’s Kenya chapter, in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), said the attackers were seen “whipping protesters and members of the public.” Footage aired by NTV showed the bikers shouting “No protests!” as they chased crowds through the city center.
Reuters was unable to verify who the motorcyclists were, and the Kenyan police spokesperson did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
“Stop Killing Us”: The Cry of a Wounded Nation
The backlash has spread beyond the capital. In Mombasa, Kenya’s second-largest city, demonstrators took to the streets carrying signs with messages like “Stop Killing Us” and “Ruto Must Stop Killing Us.” The anger echoes broader public frustration with state violence, lack of accountability, and a government many feel is increasingly repressive.
Last week, protests over Ojwang’s death saw vehicles torched and clashes with police, though it remains unclear who was responsible for setting the fires.
These latest protests are reminiscent of last year’s mass uprisings, where over 60 people were killed during demonstrations initially sparked by tax hikes but later fueled by long-standing grievances over police brutality and economic hardship.
Accountability in Question
Deputy Police Chief Eliud Lagat, whose complaint led to Ojwang’s arrest, has stepped aside temporarily pending the outcome of an official investigation. Meanwhile, two senior police officers and a CCTV technician allegedly involved in the dismantling of surveillance equipment at the station where Ojwang was held—have been arrested.
Civil society groups and international watchdogs are closely monitoring the case. Many are skeptical that the arrests will lead to meaningful reforms in a system that has historically shielded police from prosecution.
A Pattern of Abuse?
Ojwang’s death has become a flashpoint in a country with a troubling record of police misconduct. Independent investigations and human rights groups have for years warned of a pattern of torture, forced disappearances, and killings often committed under the guise of law enforcement.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), which is overseeing the investigation into Ojwang’s death, has faced criticism for a slow pace in delivering justice in past high-profile cases.
“This is not just about one blogger. It’s about a system that refuses to change,” said Nairobi-based activist Muthoni Njuguna. “Until police are held accountable, these deaths will continue, and people will rise.”
A Nation at a Crossroads
As Kenyans take to the streets demanding justice, transparency, and reform, President Ruto’s government is facing a major test of its commitment to human rights and rule of law. For many, Albert Ojwang’s death is not just a tragedy—it’s a symbol of a broken system.
Whether this moment becomes a turning point or yet another forgotten chapter in Kenya’s long struggle with police brutality remains to be seen.
Written By Joe Brens
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