Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly condemned the violent crackdown on protesters in Nairobi during Tuesday’s demonstrations, calling the scenes “one of the lowest moments of post-independence Kenya.” The protests were sparked by the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang under suspicious circumstances while in police custody.
In a scathing statement, Gachagua criticized the government for deploying excessive force against demonstrators, many of whom were young people and activists peacefully calling for justice for Ojwang. “The nation is sinking in international shame by disrespecting dignity for human life,” he said.
Videos circulating on social media showed riot police clashing with demonstrators, hurling teargas, and using batons to disperse the crowds. Gachagua pointed to shocking footage showing a hawker in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) allegedly shot at close range, questioning the rationale behind such actions. “What is the logic behind shooting an innocent and harmless hawker selling masks?” he asked. “As if the brutal murder of Albert Ojwang in police custody isn’t enough.”
The former DP also condemned the presence of suspected hired goons who infiltrated the peaceful protests, attacking demonstrators and looting their belongings in full view of security personnel. He claimed this was part of a coordinated plan to use police and criminal gangs to silence dissent.
“Kenyans enjoying their constitutional right to assembly and expression were invaded by the police and state-sponsored goons under the full glare of the camera,” Gachagua stated.
Protesters have demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of Deputy Inspector-General of Police Eliud Lagat, who is accused of overseeing Ojwang’s detention and allegedly covering up the circumstances of his death.
The Tuesday demonstrations, which began calmly in key areas such as Kencom, Parliament Road, and the National Archives, quickly turned chaotic as security forces and violent infiltrators disrupted the gatherings.
Gachagua has called on the government to end the brutality and respect Kenyans’ rights. “Stop the violence,” he urged. “It is doing more harm than good to our country.”
