NAIROBI — Kenya’s main opposition party, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has accused the government of reneging on a political truce and turning its back on the people. In a sharply worded statement, ODM condemned a recent wave of alleged abductions and police violence, demanding accountability after the death of a teacher in custody ignited protests in Nairobi.
“This is not what we agreed on,” the party said in a post shared on Thursday from its official X account. “Stop harming Kenyans. Stop targeting the youth. End the abductions.”
The statement comes just three months after ODM and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) signed a cooperation pact aimed at easing political tensions and fostering national unity. But ODM now says that deal is in danger of collapse.
At the centre of their outrage is the death of Albert Ojwang, a 32-year-old teacher and blogger, who was arrested in Homa Bay on 7 June and later died while being held at Nairobi’s Central Police Station. The circumstances of his death remain unclear. ODM described it as a “tragic loss” that has shaken public trust in the police.
Hundreds of young protesters took to the streets of the capital on Thursday, demanding justice for Ojwang. Many wore black T-shirts and carried placards bearing messages such as “Justice for Albert” and “Stop Killing Us.” Some lit fires and blocked roads, while others faced off with riot police in running battles that lasted much of the day.
Tear gas canisters and rubber bullets filled the air around the city centre. Kimathi Street, Ronald Ngala, and the Archives area became flashpoints. Two vehicles were torched, and several demonstrators were injured, according to eyewitnesses. Police had not confirmed any casualties or arrests by evening.
The protest coincided with Kenya’s national budget reading, prompting heightened security around Parliament and government offices. All access roads to Parliament were sealed off. Several protesters attempted to breach police cordons but were swiftly repelled.
While the government has yet to issue a formal response, sources within the Interior Ministry said an internal review of Ojwang’s case is underway. But ODM is demanding more.
“The state cannot kill and silence citizens with impunity,” the party said. “We expect answers, and we expect them now.”
Albert Ojwang had reportedly been arrested following a defamation complaint filed by Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat. ODM members claim the case reflects a wider trend of harassment against government critics.
“It’s chilling,” said one protester, a university student who declined to be named. “Today it’s Albert. Tomorrow, it could be any of us.”
As evening fell and the smoke cleared, ODM made it clear it would not back down.
“We signed that agreement in good faith,” the party’s statement concluded. “If this is how UDA intends to uphold it, then they are the ones walking away.”
For now, tensions remain high. And with public anger still simmering, the government may have to do more than promise justice it may have to prove it.
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