Outcry and Protests in Kenya: Blogger's Death Sparks National Unrest

Protests erupted in Nairobi after 31-year-old blogger Albert Ojwang's death in police custody, following accusations of extrajudicial killings by security forces. An independent autopsy suggested assault, contrary to initial suicide claims. Unrest spread to Mombasa, with police using tear gas and unidentified bikers assaulting demonstrators.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 17-06-2025 18:12 IST | Created: 17-06-2025 18:12 IST
Outcry and Protests in Kenya: Blogger's Death Sparks National Unrest
protests

Violent protests ignited in Nairobi on Tuesday following the death of popular blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody, raising serious concerns about alleged extrajudicial killings by Kenyan security forces. The chaos unfolded as a graphic image of a deceased man's body, seen by Reuters, circulated, further fueling public outrage.

Ojwang's death has sparked significant controversy, with contrasting reports from authorities. Initially, police claimed suicide as the cause; however, an independent autopsy indicated that assault led to his demise. This revelation forced the police chief to issue a public apology, despite ongoing street clashes and tear gas deployments by law enforcement.

Tensions also flared in Mombasa, where protesters rallied against perceived police brutality. Local media footage showed unidentified motorcyclists violently dispersing demonstrators. President William Ruto described Ojwang's death as 'unacceptable' and 'heartbreaking,' amplifying public demands for accountability and justice.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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