- Kenyans took to the streets to demand justice for blogger Albert Ojwang’, who died while in custody at the Central Police Station
- Eric Muriuki, a 29-year-old lawyer, played a part in the protests; however, unlike his counterparts, he was dressed in a suit
- In an exclusive interview with TUKO.co.ke, Muriuki called for the resignation of the Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat
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A young Kenyan lawyer captured the attention of many online after he joined protests demanding justice for Albert Ojwang’, whose death has sparked outrage across the country.
Eric Muriuki, a 29-year-old advocate and vocal human rights defender, was among demonstrators who took to the streets on Tuesday, June 10, braving tear gas and police crackdowns.
Why did Muriuki join ‘Justice for Ojwang’ protests?
Speaking to TUKO.co.ke, Muriuki explained that his decision to protest was driven by a deep sense of duty to defend the rights of ordinary Kenyans.
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“I had just come from arguing an application in court. I’d told people the day before on my X account that after finishing my court session, I would head straight to the streets—and that’s exactly what I did,” Muriuki said.
An alumnus of Alliance High School and a 2017 graduate of the University of Nairobi School of Law, Muriuki says fear is a luxury that he cannot afford while standing up for justice.
“I have no luxury to be scared. The people who go to the streets, their lives are no less important than mine. No life should be considered superior to another,” he added.
Even as police fired tear gas canisters and rubber bullets to disperse protesters, Muriuki remained undeterred. He recounted witnessing a fellow demonstrator suffer a rubber bullet injury right before his eyes.
“Tear gas was thrown where I was standing, but we don’t have the luxury to be afraid,” he insisted.
Muriuki did not hold back in criticising the authorities, calling for the resignation of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Langat, whom he implicated in the handling of Ojwang’s case.
“The moment someone is implicated in such a serious matter, they should step aside to allow for transparent investigations and ensure justice is not only done but seen to be done,” Muriuki said.
He alleged that the DIG could have been a key beneficiary in the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death.
“There’s a principle in criminal investigations, Cui bono?, meaning ‘who benefits from the crime.’ From where I stand, the main beneficiary appears to be the DIG Langat,” he added.
This is not Muriuki’s first time on the frontlines. Last year, he participated in the anti-Finance Bill protests and also offered pro bono legal aid to demonstrators wrongfully arrested during the unrest.
“I feel a strong sense of justice. That’s why I chose law—to live out my calling, serve humanity, and build a career,” he said.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
