Former Chief Justice David Maraga.
By IP Reporter
NAIROBI,Kenya .
Former Chief Justice David Maraga warned that Kenya risks “becoming like Haiti” if security forces continue using force to disperse peaceful demonstrators, as public anger grows over alleged police brutality and the death of political blogger Albert Ojwang.
Maraga spoke during an interdenominational service in Nairobi, held in memory of young Kenyans killed during last year’s Gen Z protests against the controversial Finance Bill.
He urged the government to stop deploying undercover operatives to infiltrate demonstrations, saying such tactics risk plunging the country into lawlessness.
“These Gen‑Zs who are being killed are our children, and we cannot stand idle,” Maraga said.
He urged police to restrain themselves and respect the constitutional right to protest. “Please stop it… you are sending us to Haiti,” he said.
His comments follow nationwide protests sparked by the death of Ojwang, 31, who was arrested and later died in police custody.
An autopsy revealed he suffered severe head injuries and neck compression—findings that contradict initial police reports of suicide.
Demonstrations demanding justice for Ojwang have erupted across the country, often met with tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition.
Activists accuse police of using excessive force and call for an end to what they describe as a pattern of state-sanctioned violence.
Rights groups say Kenya is witnessing a dangerous rollback of freedoms. Protesters have cited cases of arbitrary arrests, intimidation, and targeted killings, especially during last year’s anti-Finance Bill protests where scores were shot dead.
Social justice advocates welcomed Maraga’s remarks, calling them a powerful moral rebuke to growing repression.
“We are on our own,” said one activist. “It’s becoming more dangerous to speak out, but silence is no longer an option.”
The government has since announced murder charges against six suspects, including three police officers, in connection with Ojwang’s death. They are expected in court on Tuesday.
Protests are set to resume on Wednesday, marking one year since demonstrators stormed Parliament in defiance of a tax bill.
With the memory of past killings still fresh and calls for accountability rising, the nation faces a pivotal test.
Ends.
