Protests Erupt in Nairobi CBD Demanding Justice For Albert Ojwang

Protests have erupted across Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) as Kenyans take to the streets, demanding justice following the controversial death of social media influencer and teacher Albert Ojwang’ while in police custody.

Police have responded by deploying tear gas at demonstrators gathering at various strategic points within the CBD, as Gen Z protestors lead calls for accountability in Ojwang’s death. A significant demand from the demonstrators is the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat. Although Lagat voluntarily stepped aside on Monday, June 16, 2025, pending the outcome of ongoing investigations, a segment of the protesting public insists that this temporary withdrawal is insufficient and are pressing for his full resignation.

Along Moi Avenue, anti-riot police were observed dispersing protesters who had converged near the National Archives and Kencom areas. A heavy police presence is being maintained across the city’s streets, a measure reportedly in response to last week’s demonstrations, which saw instances of vandalism and looting by criminals. In the bustling areas of Tom Mboya, Luthuli, and River Road, police continue their patrols, with residents remaining vigilant to prevent any acts of hooliganism similar to those previously witnessed.

On Kimathi Street, near the National Centre, protesters gathered to offer short prayers before commencing their march. They sang the national anthem and waved the Kenyan flag, uniting in their demand for justice for Ojwang’. “We are pushing for the liberation of this country. We are looking for justice, Jehovah,” one protester prayed aloud, leading the impassioned crowd. However, anti-riot police swiftly responded by lobbing tear gas at the demonstrators, dispersing them and initiating running battles between protestors and officers.

The protests have also extended beyond Nairobi, with hundreds of Kenyans in Mombasa taking to the streets to demand justice and call for an immediate end to extrajudicial killings. “Stop killing us,” read one powerful placard held by a demonstrator in Mombasa, reflecting the widespread sentiment.

As the demonstrations continue, protestors in Mombasa have made their way across main streets, while in Nairobi, some groups are reportedly heading towards the Central Police Station, the very location where Albert Ojwang’ was last alive, intensifying their demands for accountability.