NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Police in Kenya confronted activists twice as they marched to a significant police station in Nairobi during a protest on Monday regarding a blogger’s death in custody under mysterious circumstances.
Albert Ojuwan was discovered dead while detained at the Central Police Station. While authorities suggested that his death was a result of “hitting his head against the walls of the cells,” activists raised questions about the actual cause of his death.
Ojuwan was apprehended in Homa Bay, western Kenya, and transported 400 kilometers (248 miles) to Nairobi after police claimed he was disseminating “false information” about officers on social media.
The blogger’s death comes nearly a year after several activists were allegedly killed by police in Kenya amidst protests, including those related to the 2024 Financial Bill. Although the proposed taxes from last year were repealed, public frustration with the economy persists.
“Our demands remain unmet. The unemployment rate is now tenfold compared to last year. The killings continue,” stated Ndungi Githuku, an activist from the People’s Liberation Party. “Nothing has been resolved since our previous protests. We experience a freedom that is only half-realized. This country is controlled by the wealthy, and it is time for the marginalized to stand up. This will happen soon (on anniversaries).”
Kenyan police announced that an independent police oversight body had initiated an investigation.
Police Inspector Douglas Kanja confirmed that the officers involved in Ojuwan’s detention would not be returning to work while the investigation is ongoing.
However, skepticism about the process remains high.
“To this day, the Kenya police have not provided us with the truth. We are aware that more injuries have occurred. They have chosen to scapegoat young officers. We seek justice for Ojuwan and all the others who have lost their lives,” remarked Hussein Khalid, a spokesperson for an African human rights organization.
Amnesty Kenya issued a statement indicating that Ojuwan’s arrest raised serious concerns and called for the results of the IPOA report to be disclosed, insisting that anyone found responsible must face full accountability.
“It is now a crime to oppose the government, to voice concerns about poor leadership, and to mismanage public duties.”
Ojuwan’s death continues to provoke outrage online, sparking renewed calls for protests demanding government accountability.
“This government is effectively pushing us back onto the streets. They show no remorse; they continue their attacks and assassinations. What we are saying is that while silence may seem safer, it is better to rise and face the dangers than to remain quiet at home,” the People’s Liberation Party expressed.
Source: apnews.com