Justice for Ojwang: Protests erupt in Nairobi and Mombasa

Protestors prepare to march to demand justice for Albert Ojwang in Nairobi CBD on June 17, 2025. [Courtesy] 

Protests demanding justice for Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody, have erupted in parts of the country, including in Nairobi and Mombasa.

In Nairobi, police have fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators as tensions escalated in the Central Business District. 

The protests turned chaotic when a group of suspected goons arrived on motorcycles, torched one of them, and attacked peaceful protesters and journalists.

“The police are watching the goons terrorise innocent people. One of them has been caught,” activist Hanifa Adan said. 

Helpless protesters and pedestrians became victims of brazen daylight mugging as the goons snatched their phones, handbags and other valuables.

Meanwhile, several businesses remained closed as shop owners guarded their premises out of fear of potential looting that accompany protest chaos.

It remains unclear who sanctioned and coordinated the dreaded groups which were armed with whips and clubs among other weapons.

There have been mounting calls for Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat to resign over the controversial arrest and reported torture of Ojwang, a teacher and blogger. 

On Monday, Lagat announced he was "stepping aside" to allow for impartial investigations and handed over his duties to his deputy.

Still, civil society groups and protesters insist he must resign fully and face prosecution.

In Nairobi, protesters gathered at key locations before marching to Central Police Station, where Ojwang was allegedly brutalised.

In Mombasa, demonstrators waved the national flag and carried placards calling for an end to police brutality. Chanting "We are peaceful," they are demanding justice for Ojwang.

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