What Happened to Arrow Bwoy and Khaligraph Jones in the CBD?
A viral video showing Kenyan artists Arrow Bwoy and Khaligraph Jones being teargassed and whipped by police during anti-Finance Bill 2024 protests in Nairobi CBD has caused public outrage. The two musicians were marching peacefully with fellow protestors to honor those killed during last year’s demonstrations when police disrupted the crowd.
In the clip, Arrow Bwoy is seen wearing a full-length navy blue coat while walking beside Khaligraph. As tensions escalated, police officers began firing tear gas into the group. Khaligraph was heard trying to protect Arrow, saying, “I am with him, I’m with him,” before urging him to move forward. Moments later, a police officer whipped Arrow on his lower back. He raised his hands in surrender as he walked away, while Khaligraph ran from the tear gas in the opposite direction.
The incident, captured on camera, triggered backlash online with many Kenyans expressing anger at the unprovoked use of force on peaceful demonstrators.
How Did Nadia Mukami Respond to the Attack on Arrow Bwoy?
Nadia Mukami, Arrow Bwoy’s partner and award-winning singer, quickly responded to the video with a passionate statement defending him. Though she could not attend the protests herself due to pregnancy, Nadia had earlier shared her solidarity with demonstrators:
“Last year, I joined my fellow Kenyans on the street for #RejectFinanceBill2024. This year, due to my current situation, I am not in a position to join Kenyans on the street!! But I am still here with you guys. Let us remember, we are the ones we have been waiting for! The future is now.”
Reacting directly to the clip of the police assaulting Arrow, she wrote:
“Nyinyi mafala. Msishike baba watoto wangu! Nimejam ata! #endpolicebrutality I’m seriously pissed off!”
Her post rallied support from fans and human rights advocates who condemned the targeting of public figures during peaceful protests.
What Are Kenyans Saying About the Police Brutality?
The video sparked heated reactions online, with users slamming the police for attacking unarmed citizens. Social media was flooded with comments like:
- “That police officer, your day is coming.”
- “Why whip him? These are the people who should protect us!”
- “Teargas for what? There was no violence. Harming our artists is senseless.”
- “This is so wrong. Why would they beat you na hauna hata silaha? #endpolicebrutality.”
The use of excessive force on artists who hold a massive following and influence across Kenya is now drawing further scrutiny of the state’s response to peaceful demonstrations.
What Did Khaligraph Jones Say After the Incident?
Following the attack, Khaligraph Jones, also known for his hit “Mazishi”, criticized the police’s actions and stood firm in demanding justice. He received widespread praise from Kenyans for standing with the people during the protests and for putting himself on the frontline.
Both Khaligraph and Arrow Bwoy have remained vocal supporters of youth-led movements, and their presence at the protests continues to amplify calls for accountability, justice, and the end of police brutality in Kenya.
By Risper Akinyi
