NAIROBI — The United Kingdom’s High Commission in Kenya has sharply criticised the use of force by Kenyan police during protests on Tuesday, urging the government to launch a transparent and independent investigation.
The protests erupted in Nairobi’s city centre following the death of Albert Ojwang a teacher and blogger from Voi while in police custody. Many Kenyans say his death was suspicious and are demanding answers, along with the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police, Eliud Lagatt.
In a statement released on Wednesday morning, the UK said it was “deeply concerned” by the violence meted out against demonstrators.
“We send our best wishes for the speedy recovery of those injured in yesterday’s violence,” a spokesperson from the Commission said. “Police officers must earn and retain the trust and confidence of the citizens they are sworn to serve and protect.”
The call for accountability follows the circulation of a disturbing video on social media. It shows a police officer beating a man selling face masks on Moi Avenue before firing at him at close range. Passersby are later seen lifting the bloodied vendor off the ground, trying to rush him to safety.
The video has triggered public anger and condemnation, with rights groups and professional bodies joining the outcry.
Faith Odhiambo, President of the Law Society of Kenya, called the shooting “unacceptable.” She added: “We must not allow the rising trend of police brutality to go unpunished. This is a test of whether our justice system works for the people.”
On the streets of Nairobi, the tension was palpable on Tuesday evening. Anti-riot officers patrolled the city centre, pushing back protesters demanding justice for Ojwang. Some carried placards reading “Justice for Albert” and “Who protects us from the police?”
Local and international observers say Kenya has seen a worrying rise in cases of police misconduct, particularly during public demonstrations.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) confirmed it had launched an inquiry into the matter. “We are aware of the incident and are conducting a thorough investigation,” a spokesperson told local media.
So far, the National Police Service has not issued a formal comment on either the shooting or Ojwang’s death.
For many Kenyans, this moment feels like a reckoning. “We want peace, but peace with justice,” said Nairobi resident Mercy Achieng, who joined the protests. “We are tired of burying our voices.”
