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

Kenyan prosecutors have approved murder charges against six individuals, including three police officers, related to the death of political blogger Albert Ojwang in custody. Ojwang died after his arrest as part of an investigation following a complaint by Deputy National Police Chief Eliud Lagat. Police initially claimed suicide, but an autopsy revealed he was assaulted, igniting public protests against police violence.

In a significant legal move, Kenyan prosecutors announced on Monday that they have approved murder charges against six individuals, three of whom are police officers, in connection to the death of a political blogger. Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old blogger and teacher, was arrested earlier this month, igniting a wave of protests against police brutality following his death in custody. The suspects are expected to appear in court on Tuesday.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) stated that one of the charged officers was the commander at the police station where Ojwang was detained. Details have emerged surrounding the circumstances of Ojwang’s death, initially labeled as suicide by police but later revealed through an autopsy to result from multiple assaults. This has drastically shifted public perception and prompted continued outrage over police actions.

Ojwang’s arrest stemmed from an investigation initiated by Deputy National Police Chief Eliud Lagat, who filed a formal complaint regarding allegedly false information against him circulating on social media. After investigators uncovered the nature of Ojwang’s injuries, protests erupted across the country, demanding accountability and reform. Demonstrations have continued for two weeks, with more expected to occur on Wednesday, coinciding with the one-year anniversary of a protest that resulted in conflicts between demonstrators and police.

Activists are critical of the decision to charge what they perceive as low-level officers, suggesting that it reflects an effort to obscure higher-level responsibility for Ojwang’s death. Deputy National Police Chief Lagat has temporarily stepped down while the investigation unfolds but has denied any wrongdoing related to Ojwang’s case.

Among the officers charged, James Mukhwana claimed in his testimony that his superiors indicated there was “an order from above” for Ojwang to be mistreated upon his arrival at the station. These developments raise serious questions about the conduct of law enforcement in Kenya amid the alleged cover-up surrounding Ojwang’s tragic death. The investigation continues as legal proceedings are set to begin soon.

In summary, the approval of murder charges against police officers in connection to Albert Ojwang’s death reflects the escalating tension between law enforcement and the public in Kenya. The situation has led to widespread protests, raising concerns over police brutality and accountability. Activists call for greater responsibility among higher-ranking officials, while the investigation remains ongoing with further legal actions expected.

Original Source: www.yahoo.com