Kenya: Man Arrested Over Remarks Allegedly Targeting Burundians a Day After Government Apology

What the report says

Kenyan detectives have arrested a 32-year-old man identified as Kevin Odiwuor Otieno, also known as Engineer Kevin, over remarks allegedly directed at Burundian nationals in a way that could amount to ethnic hatred and calls for violence. According to Capital FM’s report, the arrest took place in Nairobi through the Directorate of Criminal Investigations’ Buruburu unit after the comments, said to have been made at a Bunge la Mwananchi event at Jacaranda Grounds in Kayole, were recorded on video and spread on social media.

The case comes as Kenya’s government has been trying to ease tensions among Burundian residents and workers following confusion over recent statements about foreign traders. On Monday, Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei visited the Burundian Embassy in Nairobi and apologised for harassment reported after the crackdown on undocumented foreign traders. He also said the government would improve security in areas with many immigrant residents and expand documentation efforts.

The controversy followed President William Ruto’s earlier comments on restrictions for foreigners in certain business sectors, which prompted concern among some non-citizens who depend on small businesses for their livelihoods. In the DCI’s view, freedom of expression does not protect hate speech or incitement. Otieno is expected in court on Wednesday and may face charges under Kenya’s hate speech and national cohesion laws, pending the outcome of investigations. The case highlights wider sensitivity around immigration, documentation and ethnic harmony in Kenya.