Police Officer Arrested Following Protests Over Blogger’s Death in Kenya
A police officer was arrested in Kenya after protests erupted over the death of blogger Albert Ojwang, who died in custody under questionable circumstances. Demonstrators called for accountability and the resignation of implicated officials, while a government investigation is underway. President Ruto condemned Ojwang’s death as unacceptable, amidst concerns over police brutality.
In a tense aftermath of protests over the death of a blogger in police custody, a Kenyan police officer was arrested on Thursday. This unrest erupted in Nairobi, where demonstrators set fire to two vehicles and clashed with police, resulting in injuries among several protesters. The protests were part of a broader outcry against police brutality, with calls for the resignation of a high-ranking police official linked to the incident.
The blogger in question, Albert Ojwang, was known for his critical stance on corruption, often using the social media platform X to raise awareness. He was apprehended on June 6 in western Kenya and transported approximately 400 kilometers (around 248 miles) to Nairobi. Police accused him of disseminating “false information” regarding a senior police figure. Tragically, he passed away just two days later at the Central Police Station, with authorities claiming he sustained injuries by hitting his head against a wall. Organizations like Amnesty International have expressed skepticism about this explanation.
Adding to the controversy, a government pathologist has challenged the police’s narrative, stating that Ojwang’s injuries indicated possible assault, as he had sustained multiple traumatic injuries, including neck compression. On Thursday, demonstrators occupied a vital roadway in Nairobi that leads to the parliamentary building, coinciding with the scheduled presentation of the national budget.
Earlier in the week, police had already employed tear gas to disperse an earlier protest focused on demanding accountability for Ojwang’s death. In response to the mounting unrest, officials confirmed that an investigation is currently being conducted. President William Ruto expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, calling it “heartbreaking and unacceptable.”
In a statement on Wednesday, Ruto condemned any negligence or criminality that may have led to Ojwang’s tragic passing. This incident has evoked memories of a year ago when several activists met violent ends amidst protests against a controversial finance bill, raising ongoing concerns regarding police conduct under Ruto’s administration, which has faced accusations of authoritarianism.
The arrest of a police officer following the protests over blogger Albert Ojwang’s death reflects a growing public outcry against police brutality in Kenya. With investigations underway and President Ruto addressing the situation, many in the country are demanding accountability. This atmosphere of unrest underscores the continuing tension between activists and authorities in Kenya, particularly around issues of freedom of expression and governance.
Original Source: www.sfchronicle.com
