The tragic death of Albert Ojwang’ has sent ripples of grief and outrage across Kenya, prompting renewed scrutiny of police conduct and calls for far-reaching reform within the internal security apparatus.
Ojwang’, described by friends and family as a “hopeful and devoted” man, died in the hands of police hours after he was arrested on Saturday in Homa Bay county for allegedly posting defamatory material against Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.
Official postmortem results revealed that he was tortured and then strangled.
In a solemn statement, Internal Security PS Raymond Omollo acknowledged the deep anguish felt by Ojwang’s loved ones.
“There is only one position on the tragic death of Albert Ojwang’: it should never have happened.”
Omollo pledged full accountability, emphasising that “those responsible, whether by action or inaction, will be held fully accountable under the law.”
He also recognised the emotional toll on the bereaved, including Ojwang’s mother, Mama Eucabeth Ojwang’, and widow, Nevnine Onyango.
“Their pain is unimaginable, and their loss, immeasurable,” Omollo said.
The incident has renewed focus on systemic issues in Kenya’s law enforcement.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (Ipoa) said complaints against police officers—ranging from excessive force to unlawful killings—have steadily increased in recent years.
The death of Ojwang’ adds to a growing list of cases that have fueled public concern and demands for reform in the police service, whose renaming from a police force was aimed at inspiring humane treatment of the masses as underpinned by their slogan “service to all.”
Omollo said Ojwang’s death is heartbreaking and a sobering call for reforms in the police service.
“We must build a police service grounded in justice, dignity, and the sanctity of life, so that never again shall we find ourselves mourning such avoidable loss as a nation,” he said in a statement on X.
Human rights groups, including Amnesty International Kenya, have long advocated for a transformation in the culture of policing, calling for enhanced training, independent oversight, and community engagement.
Ojwang’s case, many believe, may mark a critical turning point in the public’s insistence on police accountability.
As investigations continue, Kenyans wait for justice—not only for Albert Ojwang’, but as a signal of a safer and more just future for all.
President William Ruto said even as the country waits for justice to be served—something he so confidently said will happen—the police must “eradicate misconduct and unprofessional behaviour within its own ranks.”
“I therefore call on the National Police Service to fully cooperate with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority and to take every necessary measure to facilitate a swift, transparent, and credible investigation into the death of Ojwang,” the President said.
by EMMANUEL WANJALA
