Kenyan Police Officer Arrested After Protests Over Blogger’s Death in Custody
A Kenyan police officer was arrested following protests over blogger Albert Ojwang’s death in custody. Demonstrators burned vehicles while demanding accountability, questioning police reports of self-inflicted injuries. President Ruto condemned the incident, referring to it as unacceptable. An official investigation is underway amidst public outcry for justice.
A police officer in Kenya was arrested after protests erupted over the death of a blogger while in custody. The incident took place Thursday in Nairobi, where demonstrators called for accountability, set fire to two vehicles, and caused injuries among protesters. The unrest is linked to the case of Albert Ojwang, who was detained for allegedly spreading misinformation about a police chief on social media.
Ojwang, known for his anti-corruption blogging on X, was arrested on June 6 and was transported over 400 kilometers to Nairobi. Police reported he had died two days later at a detention center due to “hitting his head against the cell wall.” However, that account has been challenged by human rights groups and activists, including Amnesty International, who raised concerns over the circumstances of his death.
A government pathologist contradicted the police’s explanation, finding that Ojwang suffered from head injury, neck compression, and other bodily injuries that indicated assault rather than self-harm. On Thursday, protesters blocked a major road in Nairobi leading to the parliament, where financial matters were being discussed, amplifying calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s demise.
Prior protests on Monday saw police utilize tear gas in an attempt to break up demonstrators demanding justice. As unrest continues, authorities have pledged an official investigation, but skepticism remains among the public regarding the outcome. President William Ruto expressed deep condolences about Ojwang’s death, labeling it “heartbreaking and unacceptable.”
In response to the outcry, Ruto condemned any negligence or potential wrongdoing that might have contributed to the situation. This recent incident recalls similar situations last year, when protests against financial legislation turned deadly due to police violence, fueling calls for Ruto’s resignation among critics who perceive him as authoritarian.
The protests reflect ongoing frustration within the Kenyan public over police conduct concerning human rights and accountability. As the situation unfolds, many are watching to see if the government will take meaningful action in response to this troubling incident.
In summary, the arrest of a police officer in Kenya highlights growing unrest following the suspicious death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody. Accusations of police brutality and a lack of accountability have fueled protests, leading to property damage and injuries among demonstrators. As calls for justice intensify, the government has announced an investigation, but public skepticism regarding police practices remains high following similar incidents in the past.
Original Source: www.sfchronicle.com
