Kenya Erupts In Protest After Blogger Dies In Police Custody

Albert Ojwang, 31, was known for his online activism against corruption. He was taken from his home by men identifying as police officers on June 6, briefly detained locally, then transferred to Nairobi. Two days later, his body was found in a morgue. An autopsy revealed head trauma, bruises, and evidence of neck compression—contradicting the police’s initial claim of self-inflicted injuries.

His funeral drew thousands to Kakoth Village. Mourners wore shirts reading “Rest in Power, Albert,” and speakers called for unity and resistance. His widow, Nevnina Onyango Omondi, recounted his last words: “I love you” and “See you soon.”

Activist Odhiambo Ojiro said Ojwang’s death sent a chilling message: “If you speak, we will take you. We will abduct you. We will kill you.”

Legal Action Follows Public Pressure

Following intense public and media scrutiny, Kenya’s Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions charged six men, including three police officers, with Ojwang’s murder. The Deputy Inspector General of Police, Eliud Lagat, stepped aside pending investigations.

Despite the charges, distrust remains deep. Kenya’s police have a documented record of extrajudicial killings and brutality. Last year, in the wake of anti-tax protests, dozens of activists were abducted and tortured, though authorities deny systemic abuse.

Anger Ignites Local Resistance

Public anger intensified when the police station where Ojwang was briefly held was set on fire. Officers abandoned the site, and only charred remnants remained.

President William Ruto has claimed all abducted persons have been returned to their families, but the public remains skeptical.

“I think the case of Albert will determine if this country is just or not,” said Ms. Omondi, holding her child at the funeral.