Police Custody Protests Spark Violence in Nairobi as Online Activist's Death Sparks Outcry
Unrest intensifies in Kenya following the demise of a digital activist online
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The heart of Nairobi has been rocked by civil unrest as protests over the death of a digital crusader, Albert Ojwang, in police custody continue to escalate. Footage from Reuters TV shows vehicles engulfed in flames, with the situation reignited by tear gas used to scatter the furious crowd.
The blogger was detained last week on allegations of disrespecting a senior law enforcement officer and later perished in custody. In the first instance, authorities suggested he had taken his own life when he collided headlong with a jail cell wall. However, President William Ruto confirmed yesterday, following a detailed postmortem, that the 31-year-old expired "at the grim hands of the police."
[Sources: ntv.de, rts]
Background:
- Public Uprising: In recent days, protests have erupted throughout Kenya, as thousands voice their dissatisfaction and demand justice. Fierce demonstrations, boycotts, and acts of civil disobedience have been witnessed across various cities, including Nairobi[1][2].
- Tragic Ending: Albert Ojwang, an influential blogger and advocate, was arrested for publicly rebuking a senior police official via social media. Initially, the authorities claimed he succumbed to suicide, but a post-death examination reveals he suffered brutal beatings[2].
- Deep-Seated Concerns: The current turmoil echoes the passionate youth-led rebellion that swept through Kenya last year and raises concerns about a repeat of history. These protests highlight the profound frustration with police brutality and corruption in Kenyan law enforcement[2].
- Community Demands: The protests are fueled by public demands for a thorough investigation into Ojwang's death and broader calls for police reform to establish accountability and prevent further tragedies[1][2].
[1]: Link 1[2]: Link 2
- The online activist's death in police custody has sparked outrage and protests across Kenya, leading many to call for accountability and police reform within the justice system, as this incident highlights deep-seated concerns about police brutality.
- As political and general-news headlines dominate media outlets, the violent clashes in Nairobi over the death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody have been a focus of international attention, fueling community demands for a thorough investigation into his death.
