Kenya to Charge Police Officers with Murder Over Blogger’s Death in Custody

Kenyan prosecutors have approved murder charges against six individuals, including three police officers, linked to the death of political blogger Albert Ojwang in custody. His death has sparked widespread protests against police brutality, with more demonstrations anticipated as the investigation unfolds. Public sentiment suggests potential cover-ups, questioning the accountability of higher-ranking officials.

Kenyan prosecutors announced on Monday that they will pursue murder charges against six individuals, including three police officers, related to the death of a political blogger in police custody. This decision came in the wake of large public outcry following the death of Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher and blogger, who died while being held at a Nairobi police station.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions stated that the suspects are set to be arraigned on Tuesday. Among the charged is the police station commander where Ojwang was detained. As of now, there are concerns regarding whether the defendants have legal representation.

Ojwang was arrested earlier this month after the deputy national police chief, Eliud Lagat, lodged a complaint about accusations against him on social media. Initially, police stated Ojwang’s death was a suicide, but this changed following an autopsy which revealed that his injuries were indeed consistent with assault.

The circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death have ignited anger in the community, leading to protests against police brutality throughout the past two weeks. Demonstrations are likely to continue, especially as Wednesday marks the one-year anniversary of mass protests that resulted in police gunfire and fatalities.

Activists have voiced that the charges against low-level officers seem indicative of a cover-up, disregarding the involvement of higher-ups in the matter. Following the uproar, Lagat temporarily relinquished his position while awaiting the outcome of the ongoing investigation related to Ojwang’s case.

One of the charged officers, James Mukhwana, reportedly told investigators that he received instructions from higher-ups to treat Ojwang roughly upon his arrival at the station, as shared in his testimony reviewed by Reuters. As of this moment, attempts to obtain a direct comment from Lagat have been unsuccessful, and the National Police Service has not provided remarks on his behalf.

In summary, the tragic death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody has led to significant legal and social ramifications in Kenya. Prosecutors are moving forward with murder charges against three police officers and three others, prompting public outrage and expected protests. Activist sentiments of potential cover-ups emerge as investigations continue, especially as the anniversary of last year’s mass protests draws near.

Original Source: www.yahoo.com