By Ernest Bandi
Tensions flared in the capital on Monday as dozens of activists staged a protest outside the City Mortuary in Nairobi, demanding justice and accountability following the suspicious death of blogger and teacher Albert Omondi Ojwang while in police custody.
The demonstrators, chanting slogans and holding placards, accused the police of foul play and called for the immediate resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, who was earlier revealed by Inspector General Japhet Koome as the complainant in the controversial case that led to Ojwang’s arrest.
“Kenya is united, we shall never be defeated! We want justice for Ojwang! Ruto must go! The youth are united towards this,” shouted protesters as they gathered near Ngong Road, temporarily blocking the roundabout and causing major traffic disruptions.
Among the vocal figures who joined the protest were civil rights activist Hanifa Adan, Hussein Khalid — the outspoken African CEO — student leader Joshua Okayo, and governance expert Fred Ogola.
The group later marched to Central Police Station in Nairobi, demanding to be allowed in to seek answers about Ojwang’s treatment and the circumstances surrounding his death. However, they were met by a heavy presence of anti-riot police who blocked their entry and ordered them to disperse.
Ojwang, who was arrested on June 6, 2025, in Homa Bay, was accused of sharing defamatory content about DIG Lagat on social media. He died days later under mysterious circumstances while in detention at Central Police Station. His death has sparked national outrage and renewed calls for police accountability and an end to brutality in the force.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has since taken over the investigation. Meanwhile, several officers from the station, including the commander, have been suspended, though the public and rights groups continue to demand more transparent and decisive action.
As public anger mounts, the death of Albert Ojwang has become a rallying point for activists, students, and civil society organizations, who are calling not just for justice, but for far-reaching reforms in the policing system.
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