Protests Erupt in Kenya After Activist Albert Ojwang Dies in Police Custody

Kenya faces rising protests after activist Albert Ojwang dies in custody. Arrested for criticizing the police, his death has raised serious questions about police conduct. Activists are demanding justice and accountability amid distrust in government promises. As the anniversary of earlier protests approaches, tensions escalate further.

Protests in Kenya have intensified following the death of activist Albert Ojwang while in police custody. Ojwang was arrested on Saturday after police accused him of tarnishing their image on social media, and he died just hours later. Activists have taken to the streets, ramping up tensions as the country nears the one-year mark of protests against government corruption and contentious tax reforms.

The police claim that Ojwang injured himself by banging his head against the wall in his cell, but his family and supporters are disputing this narrative. An autopsy was set for Monday but postponed, with the new date now scheduled for Tuesday. Ojwang’s father waited for hours at the morgue, expressing skepticism about the police’s account. Many questions surrounding his death remain unresolved.

Family lawyer Julius Juma raised significant concerns. “We do not yet know the exact cause of Albert’s death or who is responsible. If he was arrested for the reasons given, why was he placed in solitary confinement? Why are we being told he hit his head against the wall? His body showed numerous injuries—to his head, hands, and shoulders. His head was completely swollen,” he stated.

On Monday, a protest march began in Nairobi near the police station where Ojwang died. Clashes erupted between police and protesters following the use of tear gas by officers. Official reports say Ojwang was found unconscious in his cell and was pronounced dead at the hospital. All officers that night were suspended for the investigation, with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority now involved in the case.

Despite suspensions, many are doubtful about any real accountability or change. Hussein Khalid, head of the human rights group Vocal Africa, expressed frustration, saying, “Until now they have not told us the truth. We know there were more injuries. They have decided to sacrifice junior officers. We want justice for Ojwang and many others who have lost their lives.”

Amnesty Kenya emphasized that Ojwang’s arrest raises troubling questions, calling for clarity from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority and accountability for any culpable officers. This incident comes almost a year after violent police responses to protests against finance bills, which saw multiple activists killed or abducted.

As economic frustrations continue, activists lament that promises made after last year’s protests remain unfulfilled. Ndungi Githuku from the People’s Liberation Party reflected on the ongoing struggles: “Our demands are still not met. The joblessness they had last year is tenfold.” Githuku also warned of renewed protests, stating, “This government is actually urging us to come out in the street again. They are saying they have not repented; they are saying that they will continue abducting and assassinating us. So, we are saying that it’s better to shout and die than to keep quiet and be gotten from our homes while we are quiet.”

The tragic death of activist Albert Ojwang while in police custody has sparked widespread protests across Kenya, reigniting public distrust in the government and police. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, prompting demands for justice and accountability. With the country nearing a significant anniversary of protests against systemic corruption, calls for renewed activism against police brutality and economic inequities grow louder.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr