Nairobi protests erupt over custodial death
Protests erupted in Nairobi following the death of Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher and blogger, while in police custody. Demonstrators clashed with police, leading to the use of tear gas and reports of at least one fatality. Ojwang was arrested on June 7 for allegedly defaming a police official and was found unresponsive in his cell the following day. Initially claimed to have committed suicide, an independent autopsy revealed signs of violent assault, prompting public outrage and an apology from the police chief.
President William Ruto condemned Ojwang's death as "heartbreaking and unacceptable," highlighting ongoing concerns about extrajudicial killings by security forces. The protests reflect broader frustrations over police accountability, particularly in light of previous unrest that resulted in over 60 deaths last year due to police crackdowns during demonstrations against proposed tax increases.
As tensions escalated, reports emerged of police firing live rounds, with one street vendor shot in the head by a masked officer. Witnesses described violent attacks by groups of motorcyclists targeting protesters, further intensifying the chaos. The Deputy Inspector General of Police has temporarily stepped aside amid the unrest, and several officers have been arrested for tampering with evidence related to Ojwang's case.
Public anger is mounting, with calls for comprehensive police reform and accountability. A new protest is scheduled for June 24, raising concerns about potential further violence. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority is investigating Ojwang's death and the recent shootings, as public pressure mounts ahead of the 2027 elections. The current unrest underscores deep-seated distrust in state institutions and the ongoing struggle for police reform in Kenya.
