Kenyan Man Dies in Custody After Arrest for Social Media Post
A Kenyan man named Albert Ojwang died in police custody after being arrested for a social media post, leading to widespread outrage and calls for investigation from human rights groups. His death raises serious concerns about police conduct and the systemic issues in Kenya following protests against government policies.
On June 9, 2025, news broke that a Kenyan man died while in police custody after his arrest for a social media post. Albert Ojwang’s untimely death has ignited condemnation from supporters and human rights organizations, particularly Amnesty International, who called for urgent action. Significant context surrounding his death relates to increased tensions in the country stemming from protests against tax increases and corruption in recent years, particularly under President William Ruto’s administration.
The police report stated that Ojwang was detained for a “false publication” and apparently sustained head injuries after hitting his head against a cell wall. In response to the situation, police officers immediately transported him to Mbagathi Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival. Authorities from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) have since announced they will investigate this alarming incident.
Amnesty International insisted that Ojwang’s death should be subject to a comprehensive and independent investigation. They highlighted it as part of a troubling pattern, noting that security forces have been linked to the deaths of more than 60 individuals during demonstrations in June 2024, as well as numerous enforced disappearances in the aftermath of the unrest.
The organization further emphasized that Ojwang’s tragic fate is a stark reminder of the pressing need for substantial reform within the Kenyan police system. Meanwhile, outrage poured onto social media from Ojwang’s supporters, demanding accountability. Journalist Lynn Ngugi conveyed the sentiment on X, stating, “We demand answers. This death cannot be swept under the rug. How many more young lives must we lose to this rotten system?”
Just days before Ojwang’s death, another Kenyan, Rose Njeri, a software developer, faced charges for creating a website aimed at coordinating opposition against a new finance bill, showing the continuing climate of repression against dissenting voices in the country. The deaths and arrests highlight significant ongoing challenges regarding freedom of expression, and the rule of law in Kenya.
The recent death of Albert Ojwang in police custody underscores ongoing tensions in Kenya surrounding the freedom of expression. As rights groups demand an independent inquiry, his case adds to the heavy scrutiny over security force conduct amidst political unrest. Amid the cries for justice, concerns grow about the need for critical reforms to prevent further tragedies.
Original Source: www.bssnews.net
