NAIROBI – Former Chief Justice David Maraga has spoken out sharply against what he described as a disturbing trend of repression in Kenya, warning that the death of social media influencer Albert Ojwang’ in police custody signals a broader assault on digital freedoms and constitutional rights.
“This is not an isolated incident,” Maraga said in a statement on Sunday. “It fits a pattern of fear being used to silence dissent and chip away at our constitutional protections.”
Ojwang’, a 29-year-old blogger and political commentator from Homa Bay, died last week while being held at Nairobi’s Central Police Station. He had reportedly been arrested over posts shared on X (formerly Twitter) alleging corruption tied to a senior police official. His family and rights groups say he was never formally booked into the station a breach of police protocol and due process.
The official explanation that Ojwang’ fatally injured himself by striking his head against a cell wall has been met with widespread scepticism.
“Albert’s death is a stark and painful reminder of the dangers faced by Kenyans who speak up,” Maraga said. “When power is unchecked, the consequences can be deadly.”
His remarks come as pressure mounts on the government to investigate what many believe was not an accident but a deliberate attempt to intimidate critical voices. Several lawmakers and human rights groups have already called for an independent inquiry.
Maraga, who chaired the national task force on police and judicial reforms, urged authorities to treat digital freedoms as an essential part of Kenya’s democratic framework.
“Digital rights are human rights,” he said. “Freedom of expression whether offline or online must be protected, not punished.”
He called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to act “swiftly, transparently and justly,” adding that impunity would only deepen public mistrust.
Ojwang’s death has sparked protests and revived anger over the state’s treatment of young Kenyans, especially those using online platforms to raise uncomfortable truths. His case echoes others in recent years, where youth activists, journalists, and whistleblowers have found themselves targeted by law enforcement.
So far, the Inspector General of Police has ordered an internal review, and several officers stationed at Central Police Station have reportedly been suspended pending investigations.
But for many, those steps are not enough.
“There must be accountability,” said Daisy Achieng, a rights advocate based in Nairobi. “We’ve seen too many deaths swept under the rug. Albert’s voice mattered and so does justice for him.”
The story of Albert Ojwang’ from an outspoken blogger to a casualty of a broken system is now raising a deeper question: In today’s Kenya, what is the true cost of speaking out?
