NAIROBI –
In the midst of tear gas and chaos on Nairobi’s streets, one man stood out-not as an agitator, but as a protector. A Kenyan police officer, whose name remains unknown, has captured national attention after a video emerged showing him shielding peaceful Gen Z protesters from his fellow officers.
It was a rare and striking moment-an officer stepping in to defend citizens during an increasingly tense standoff between police and demonstrators. The image of him, arms spread and body forward, blocking what appeared to be rogue officers, has gone viral.
“He was doing what he was trained to do,” said Mohammed Hersi, a well-known public commentator, on X (formerly Twitter). “Only fear is ALMIGHTY GOD.”
The officer is believed by many online to be based at Nyayo House. He’s now being affectionately referred to as “Moha wa Nyayo House.” Kenyans from all walks of life are asking for his name, some saying they want to send him flowers or simply thank him for doing what they called “the right thing.”
One user wrote: “Tunataka namba tu tumsalimie na upendo.” (We just want his number so we can greet him with love.)
Others urged caution. “You don’t applaud a fish for swimming,” another commented, suggesting he simply fulfilled his duty.
Still, in a country where cases of police brutality have long drawn criticism from human rights groups, the officer’s gesture felt extraordinary to many. It came amid ongoing demonstrations against government policies, including tax hikes, led largely by young people under the banner of #RutoMustGo.
Footage from the protests showed several confrontations between police and demonstrators, with reports of injuries and arrests. While some officers were seen using excessive force, this one man’s calm resistance stood in stark contrast.
“If he’s the same one I saw around Nyayo in 2019, then I’m not surprised,” posted user Ndegwa Njuguna. “He’s always done what he was hired to do-serve, not harm.”
At a time when trust in law enforcement is fragile, this moment has offered a glimmer of hope.
The National Police Service has yet to comment on the officer’s identity or the viral footage. Meanwhile, Kenyans continue to share his image, calling for recognition, and reminding leaders that there is still room for dignity in uniform.
