Kenya protests have turned violent as demonstrators clashed with government-backed thugs wielding clubs. The demonstrations were held in response to the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang, who died 10 days ago while in police custody. An autopsy found that Mr. Ojwang likely died after being assaulted.
Two policemen have been arrested in connection with his death, and a top police officer, Eliud Lagat, has stepped aside amid an investigation into the matter. However, activists want him removed from office, citing his complaint against the blogger as the reason for the arrest.
Violence broke out earlier this week when groups of young men on motorbikes attacked protesters with whips and clubs. Police fired teargas to disperse the crowd. A vendor was shot in the head by a police officer, critically injuring him. The policeman responsible has since been arrested.
The protests come amid growing tensions ahead of next week’s anniversary of parliament’s storming by demonstrators. Activists plan to build up momentum for a “total shutdown” of businesses next Wednesday.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c74zjw55l93o