Death and Chaos in Nairobi as Goons Hijack Peaceful Protest for Justice

 Nairobi, June 17, 2025. What started as a peaceful protest in Nairobi's Central Business District turned tragic and chaotic on Tuesday after armed goons infiltrated the demonstration, leading to violence, destruction, and loss of life. 

 

PHOTO | RFI

The protest was organized to demand justice for the late Albert Ojwang, a young blogger and teacher who died in police custody. It quickly spiraled out of control as infiltrators clashed with both demonstrators and security forces. 

 

A Peaceful Protest Turns Deadly 

Early in the day, demonstrators gathered at key locations such as Moi Avenue, Kenyatta Avenue, and the National Archives. They chanted and waved placards demanding police accountability. 

 

However, by mid-morning, a group of unidentified individuals, some armed with crude weapons and wearing masks, blended into the crowd, triggering chaos. These goons reportedly looted nearby businesses, attacked passersby, and provoked confrontations with the police. 

 

The resulting confusion led to police firing tear gas and live rounds to disperse the crowd. In the melee, at least one protester was confirmed dead, several others were injured, and dozens were arrested. 

 

Eyewitness Accounts: “They Were NotWith Us” 

Many protesters disowned the violence, insisting the infiltration was deliberate and politically motivated. 

 

“We came to demand justice for Albert Ojwang peacefully. But those men who began attacking police and breaking shop windows were not part of us,” said Janet Achieng, a protester from Eastlands. “We suspect they were sent to taint our cause.” 

 

Others shared the belief that the goons were planted to undermine the protest and justify a violent crackdown. 

 

Government Condemns Violence, Promises Probe 

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen condemned the violence, blaming it on “criminal elements hiding among demonstrators,” and promised quick action. 

 

“We will not tolerate lawlessness, whether in the name of protest or otherwise. Investigations are underway, and those responsible for today’s chaos will face the full force of the law.” 

 

Meanwhile, human rights groups have urged the government to distinguish between peaceful protesters and violent actors, warning against collective punishment and arbitrary arrests. 

 

Shops Vandalized, Businesses Count Losses 

The business community in Nairobi has also been hit hard. Shopkeepers along Moi Avenue and Luthuli Avenue reported broken windows, looted electronics, and burned merchandise. 

 

“We support justice, but this kind of destruction is unacceptable,” said Kevin Mwangi, a shop owner. “It’s heartbreaking that goons can hijack genuine struggles for their selfish gains.” 

 

A Tragedy Within a Tragedy 

The death of a protester during the demonstration has added to the grief and anger already stirred by Albert Ojwang’s suspicious death. His family has called for calm but urged the government to act urgently and fairly. 

The tragic turn of events in Nairobi serves as a grim reminder of the delicate line between peaceful civic action and violent unrest. As Kenya faces increasing calls for police reform and accountability, the challenge now is to protect the right to protest while preventing criminal exploitation of public outrage. 

 

The government faces pressure not only to bring justice to Albert Ojwang’s family but also to ensure the rule of law is upheld amid chaos.