Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) descended into chaos on Tuesday as suspected goons riding motorcycles stormed the city in an apparent bid to disrupt ongoing protests demanding justice for Albert Ojwang’. Ojwang’, a teacher and social media influencer, died in police custody under suspicious circumstances, sparking widespread outrage led by Kenya’s Gen Z youth.
The alleged goons, dressed in heavy clothing and face masks, flooded key city roads including Kenyatta Avenue, Moi Avenue, and Tom Mboya Street. Witnesses said the group appeared intent on intimidating demonstrators, with some boda boda riders carrying up to four passengers and weaving aggressively through crowds.
The identity of those who mobilised the group remains unknown, but the show of force coincided with the peaceful protests organised to call for accountability in Ojwang’s death. Protesters accused the unidentified bikers of being hired to scuttle the movement and create fear among demonstrators.
Despite the intimidation, hundreds of young Kenyans marched through the CBD chanting slogans and waving national flags. On Kimathi Street, protesters paused to pray and sing the national anthem, declaring their resolve to seek justice. “We are pushing for the liberation of this country. We are looking for justice, Jehovah,” one protester said during a public prayer.
Police responded with heavy-handed tactics, including the use of teargas to disperse crowds gathering near Kencom and the National Archives. The protests have continued even after Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat stepped aside pending investigations. Protesters insist his resignation is necessary for a credible probe.
Businesses along Tom Mboya, River Road, and Luthuli Avenue remained on high alert, with a strong police presence maintaining order following incidents of looting during previous protests.
Demonstrations also erupted in other cities, including Mombasa, where residents carried placards reading, “Stop killing us,” decrying police brutality and extrajudicial killings.
As the protest movement grows, pressure is mounting on the government to deliver justice for Ojwang’ and address longstanding grievances over police accountability.
