Nairobi, June 17, 2025 — A wave of anger and frustration swept through the streets of Nairobi’s Central Business District today, as hundreds of demonstrators—mostly youth—marched in protest over the suspicious death of popular blogger and teacher, Albert Ojwang, while in police custody. The demonstrations mark a significant flashpoint in Kenya’s ongoing struggle against police brutality and unaccountable law enforcement.
Justice for Ojwang: A Cry That Shook the City
From the early morning hours, protesters gathered at strategic points such as the National Archives, Moi Avenue, and Harambee Avenue, holding placards that bore Ojwang’s photo and slogans like “Justice for Albert,” “Stop Police Killings,” and “Prosecute Lagat.” The atmosphere was one of deep grief mixed with righteous fury.
Police attempted to contain the demonstration using tear gas, roadblocks, and anti-riot units, but the protestors remained largely defiant, vowing to continue until justice is served.
Postmortem Report Sparks Outrage
Fueling the unrest is a recently released autopsy report, which ruled out suicide and confirmed that Ojwang died from blunt force trauma to the head and neck compression. This directly contradicts the initial police narrative, suggesting foul play and pointing toward torture or physical assault while in custody.
The disturbing revelations have inflamed tensions nationwide, with many viewing Ojwang’s death as part of a broader pattern of police violence and extrajudicial killings.
DIG Eliud Lagat Under Pressure
At the center of the storm is Deputy Inspector-General of Police Eliud Lagat, who has since stepped aside to allow investigations into the incident. However, protesters and human rights groups argue that resignation is not enough—they are demanding his immediate arrest and prosecution.
“We’re not here to beg. We are here to demand accountability,” shouted one protestor. “Our brothers and sisters cannot keep dying in silence!”
Presidential Response and Political Fallout
President William Ruto addressed the nation briefly, promising a comprehensive investigation and assuring Kenyans that “no one is above the law.” Still, critics say such promises have been made before—with little follow-through.
Opposition leaders and civil society organizations have called for an independent judicial inquiry, citing a lack of public trust in internal police investigations.
A Nation at a Crossroads
This protest is not just about one man—it reflects a growing national frustration with systemic abuse by security agencies. Over the past year, several high-profile deaths and disappearances have been linked to rogue police officers and elite squads.
“We have reached a breaking point,” said a spokesperson for the Kenya Human Rights Commission. “Albert Ojwang was a voice for the voiceless. Silencing him has only amplified the demand for justice.”
As dusk settles over Nairobi, the question remains: Will this be a turning point in Kenya’s war against police brutality—or just another forgotten tragedy?
The people have spoken loudly. Now, all eyes are on the government, the judiciary, and the police service. Justice for Ojwang may be the spark that ignites overdue reform—or the flame that burns public trust to the ground.
Comments
Post a Comment
thank you for visiting this site . Hope for more posts