Many young people and human rights activists in Kenya took to the streets of Nairobi on Thursday to demand justice for Albert Omondi Ojwang. He was a 31-year-old social media influencer who died while in police custody under suspicious circumstances.
The protesters chanted phrases like “No more deaths, Justice for Albert” and “Ruto must go,” as they marched through important streets like Moi Avenue, Kenyatta Avenue, and Harambee Avenue.
They aimed to reach key government buildings, including City Hall and the Parliament, asking for accountability and changes in how police operate.
Albert Ojwang was a teacher from Homa Bay County. He was arrested on June 6 in Migori after a police officer, Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, accused him of defaming him on social media.
After being transferred over 350 km to Nairobi’s Central Police Station, Ojwang died just hours after being booked on June 7.
The police claimed he hurt himself by hitting his head on a wall, but a medical examination showed he had injuries consistent with violence, such as head trauma and bruises. This report sparked anger among the public.
Prominent activists, including Hanifa Adan and Vocal Africa CEO Hussein Khalid, joined the protesters at the Nairobi Funeral Home, which used to be called City Mortuary, before marching to the police station where Ojwang died.
They carried signs with messages like “Stop killing us” and “#JusticeForAlbertOjwang.” Clashes occurred between the protesters and police, with officers using tear gas to disperse the crowds near Jeevanjee Gardens and Aga Khan Walk.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is looking into the case, and Inspector General Douglas Kanja has suspended several police officers, including Benjamin Talam, the Officer Commanding Station at Central Police Station, who is considered a key suspect in the case.
Former Attorney General Justin Muturi criticised what happened, saying, “This worrying trend shows that the government is using its power to silence people instead of delivering justice.”
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga also called for a fair investigation, saying, “There is no place for police violence in our society.”
Organizations focused on human rights, such as Amnesty Kenya, are urging the IPOA to make their findings public, highlighting a history of extrajudicial killings.
As the protests continue, Ojwang’s death has become a symbol for the demand for police reform and accountability in Kenya.
POLICE teargas and disperse protesters in Nairobi CBD demonstrating against the murder of influencer Albert Ojwang in police custody. pic.twitter.com/48On3mYqaK
— CapitalFM Breaking News (@BreakingNewsKE) June 12, 2025
