Gen Z took to the streets of Nairobi on Tuesday, June 17, to demand justice for Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody.
Protesters sustained their call for the immediate resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, whom they accuse of overseeing a culture of impunity and systemic brutality within the police force.
The death of Ojwang has sparked widespread outrage. Below is a timeline of the events happening in Nairobi CBD.
3:50 pm: A mask vendor who was shot by a police officer at close range was evacuated from the scene by protesters.
2:50 pm: A mask vendor has been shot by police in the head outside Imenti House in Nairobi’s central business district during ongoing demonstrations.
Emergency responders are on the scene, and the condition of the individual remains unclear. Authorities have not yet released an official statement.
1:40 pm: Goons chanting “Ruto tano tena” were seen patrolling the streets of Nairobi, creating a tense moment as they voiced their support for President Ruto’s second term.
1:20 pm: Businesses in Nairobi CBD remain closed as protests continue gaining momentum.
12: 20 pm: Reports emerged that activist Hanifa Adan had been assaulted during the protests. In a video shared online, Hanifa recounted the incident, stating that one of the attackers beat her and took her phone.
As she tried to retrieve it by grabbing his jacket, other protesters intervened, helping her recover the phone and detain the assailant, who was then beaten by the crowd.
12:10 pm: Protests had escalated in Mombasa, resulting in the arrest of several demonstrators.
11:50 am: Goons on motorbikes have been deployed in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) in an apparent attempt to disrupt peaceful protestors.
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The situation remains tense as protestors continue to demand accountability while trying to maintain a non-violent stance.
11:10 am: Police have lobbed teargas to disperse protesters in Nairobi’s central business district. The demonstration, which had drawn a sizable crowd, prompted a swift response from law enforcement aimed at clearing the area and restoring order.
10:00 am: Crowds begin to gather at various points across Nairobi CBD. Police units have been deployed in anticipation of the so-called “Total Shutdown” protest. Officers are on high alert as tensions continue to build.
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It’s inspiring to see Gen Z stepping up and making their voices heard on issues like police brutality. The bravery of the youth could lead to real change, but we also need stronger accountability systems within the police force.
This generation isn’t waiting for permission to act. Whether or not DIG Lagat resigns, it’s clear the public wants serious reform in the police service—and their voices are getting harder to ignore.