NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya’s opposition is preparing to announce a new political direction following the shooting of an unarmed hawker during anti-police brutality protests in Nairobi on Tuesday.
In a statement, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, accused President William Ruto of presiding over what he described as “state-sponsored terrorism” and warned that the opposition would no longer stand by as innocent Kenyans are brutalised in the streets.
“In light of today’s most troubling developments, the United Opposition will convene tomorrow to provide direction to Kenya,” Kalonzo declared.
The hawker, who was selling face masks, was shot at close range by a police officer in broad daylight, in a scene captured on video and widely shared online.
Mr Ruto, Earlier today, I urged you to put an end to state-sponsored terrorism against Kenyans. Instead, your goons, hired by Governor Sakaja, terrorised and brutalised innocent Kenyans peacefully protesting the extrajudicial murder of Albert Ojwang on the streets of Nairobi,
The National Police Service has since confirmed the officer’s arrest, and said the victim is currently undergoing treatment in hospital.
But Kalonzo dismissed the official response as cosmetic, accusing the government of protecting “killer squads” while failing to uphold constitutional rights.
“Your goons, hired by Governor Sakaja, terrorised and brutalised innocent Kenyans peacefully protesting the extrajudicial murder of Albert Ojwang,” he said. “Mr Ruto, your Killer Squad extrajudicially shot an innocent, unarmed, non-violent hawker under your direction and police protection.”
The opposition’s call for an emergency meeting comes at a time when Gen Z-led protests and civic outrage are reshaping Kenya’s political climate.
The protests, sparked by Ojwang’s death, have gained momentum and drawn national attention to rising concerns over extrajudicial killings and state repression.
