Kenya Faces Outcry After Death of Teacher in Custody

Albert Ojwang's arrest and subsequent death underscores rising concerns about treatment of government critics in Kenya.

Kenya's independent police oversight body has initiated an investigation into the tragic death of Albert Ojwang, a teacher and blogger who passed away in custody after being apprehended on charges related to “false publication.” The police reported that Ojwang was arrested in Homa Bay and then transported over 350 kilometers (approximately 220 miles) to Nairobi. His father, Meshack Opiyo, shared with journalists that, during his detention, Ojwang reportedly sustained head injuries after colliding with a cell wall. Tragically, he was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital.

The situation surrounding Ojwang's death has drawn widespread scrutiny, particularly from human rights organizations. The director of Amnesty International's Kenyan branch described the incident as "very suspicious," urging for a thorough, independent investigation into the events leading to his demise. A police spokesman suggested that the injuries may have resulted from an "attempted suicide," but this assertion raises further questions and concerns about the police's accountability.

The specific nature of the "false publication" charges remains unclear, although the arresting officer allegedly mentioned that Ojwang had made disparaging comments about a figure on the social media platform X. Irungu Houghton, director of Amnesty International Kenya, expressed shock that Ojwang was transported long distances rather than being booked locally after his arrest, calling for independent investigators to secure the crime scene in Nairobi.

The distressing circumstances surrounding Ojwang's detention follow a broader trend of increasing anxiety regarding the treatment of government critics in Kenya. Just last week, software developer Rose Njeri faced charges for violating cybercrime laws after creating a tool designed to help citizens contest a government finance bill. This incident highlights the growing apprehension among individuals voicing dissent in a rapidly changing political landscape.