Kenyan Man Dies in Custody After Arrest Over Social Media Posts

A Kenyan man, Albert Ojwang, died in police custody after being arrested for social media posts. His death has drawn outrage from human rights activists and supporters, prompting calls for an independent investigation. This controversial incident raises serious concerns about police practices and the treatment of dissent in Kenya, especially in light of past violence during protests.

A tragic incident in Kenya has stirred controversy and outrage following the death of Albert Ojwang, a man who passed away while in police custody after being arrested over social media posts. This event has raised concerns among supporters and human rights advocates, including Amnesty International, about potential police misconduct and repression of dissent. The news emerged on Sunday, June 9, 2025, shortly before the anniversary of violent protests against corruption and unjust tax increases under President William Ruto’s administration.

According to police reports, Ojwang was detained for making a “false publication” online. Authorities claimed that he sustained head injuries after hitting his head against a wall in his cell. Police indicated they acted promptly, transporting him to Mbagathi Hospital, but unfortunately, he was declared dead upon arrival. Such an explanation has failed to quell the anger surrounding his death—many see it as indicative of deeper issues within the Kenyan police system.

In light of Ojwang’s death, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has initiated an investigation. The call for a transparent inquiry coincides with a note from Amnesty International urging that this incident “must be urgently, thoroughly and independently investigated.” The organization highlighted the broader context of state violence during protests, noting that at least 60 people were killed by security forces during unrest in June 2024.

These events have ignited considerable outrage online, with Ojwang’s supporters demanding accountability. Some have voiced their anger on social media, notably journalist Lynn Ngugi, who called out the authorities, saying, “We demand answers. This death cannot be swept under the rug. How many more young lives must we lose to this rotten system?” This sentiment encapsulates a widespread feeling that there is a troubling climate of fear regarding free expression in Kenya.

Furthermore, the atmosphere of repression has intensified with other recent arrests, such as that of Rose Njeri, a Kenyan software developer charged with violating cybercrime laws after she created a website aimed at mobilizing opposition against a new finance bill. These incidents resonate with a growing number of citizens concerned about their rights and the actions of national security forces, as the calls for reform grow louder.

The death of Albert Ojwang while in custody has sparked significant unrest and condemnation from various quarters in Kenya. This incident not only brings to light concerns about police conduct and the repression of free speech but also aligns with ongoing worries about human rights in the country. As the IPOA investigates, there is increasing pressure on the government to ensure accountability in cases of police violence and to address the systemic issues within its law enforcement agencies. The calls for reform and accountability seem to be gaining momentum as more citizens demand change from their leaders.

Original Source: www.bssnews.net