Protests in Kenya after blogger's death in police custody

Demonstrations have taken place in Kenya following the death of a blogger who was in police custody, with reports of one person killed during the unrest.

Protests erupted in Nairobi on Tuesday after the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody earlier this month. A Reuters journalist reported seeing one person lying on the ground with a head wound, but the circumstances of the death remain unclear. Police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said he was not aware of any casualties.

Ojwang, 31, passed away on June 8. His death has drawn attention to ongoing concerns about policing in the country. Last year, protests over proposed tax increases resulted in dozens of fatalities. Initially, authorities reported that Ojwang died by suicide. However, an independent autopsy later suggested his injuries were consistent with assault. Kenya’s police chief subsequently apologised for the earlier statement.

During Tuesday’s demonstrations, police used tear gas to disperse crowds. Clashes were also reported involving unidentified motorcyclists. Local broadcaster NTV aired footage of motorcyclists shouting “No protests” as they approached demonstrators. Amnesty International’s Kenya chapter reported that individuals on motorbikes were seen whipping some protesters. Reuters could not verify the identities of those involved.

President William Ruto stated that Ojwang’s death occurred “at the hands of the police” and described the incident as “unacceptable.” The Independent Policing Oversight Authority said Ojwang was detained following a complaint by deputy police chief Eliud Lagat.

Protests were also reported in Mombasa, where demonstrators carried placards and chanted slogans. Earlier demonstrations in Nairobi last week involved property damage and further use of tear gas by police.

Deputy police chief Lagat has temporarily stepped aside pending the outcome of the investigation. Two senior officers and a CCTV technician have been detained in connection with the ongoing inquiry.

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