Kenyan authorities have arrested a police constable in connection with the death of political blogger Albert Ojwang, who died while in custody. His passing, which has sparked widespread protests in Nairobi, has drawn significant attention to the controversial practices of the country’s security services, accused for years of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances.
Ojwang, 31, was declared dead on Sunday, just days after his arrest for allegedly defaming Deputy Police Chief Eliud Lagat online. Initially, police suggested his death might have been a suicide; however, protests erupted when evidence from an independent autopsy indicated that physical assault, including a head injury and neck compression, likely contributed to his demise.
In response to escalating public anger, President William Ruto reversed earlier statements and acknowledged that Ojwang had died “at the hands of the police.” His administration has faced accusations from human rights groups of covering up cases of police violence.
Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Nairobi on Thursday, demanding the resignation of Deputy Police Chief Lagat and expressing their outrage at the treatment received by Ojwang while in custody. Demonstrations turned violent, with reports of vehicles being set ablaze and police deploying tear gas to disperse the crowds.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority has initiated an investigation into Ojwang’s death, alongside calls for a transparent inquiry from international bodies like the European Union and the United States. This incident not only raises urgent questions about police conduct but also echoes other recent cases in the region, such as that of Marika Radua, who also died while in custody, leading to public outcry for better accountability and reform within law enforcement agencies.
As the situation evolves, there is hope that these tragic events will galvanize efforts to enhance transparency and accountability in police operations, ultimately fostering a safer environment for all individuals in custody.
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