The death of Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old blogger and teacher, following his arrest in Homa Bay, has left his family and a nation in shock. His father, Meshack Ojwang, expressed devastation outside the Central Police Station in Nairobi, recounting how he learned of his son's death on June 8, 2025, the day after Albert was taken into custody for allegedly insulting a police officer on social media.
Despite assurances of safety from arresting officers, the family’s worst fears were realized when they were informed that Albert died from self-inflicted injuries. His father, having traveled from their village, found his son’s body bruised and bloodied, leading to fervent calls for #JusticeForAlbertOjwang across social media.
Albert Ojwang was renowned for his engaging social media presence, addressing political and social issues, a pursuit that is increasingly perilous in Kenya. Activists connected his death to a broader pattern of police brutality and impunity, referencing over 60 unresolved fatalities from previous protests.
The case has prompted parliament to summon top police officials, including the police chief, to account for the conduct leading to Ojwang's death. This scrutiny is notable given Kenya's history of police violence, igniting outrage among citizens who demand accountability.
Additionally, details have emerged from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) about the circumstances of Albert's last hours, including suspicious actions like the disabling of CCTV cameras at the station. Witnesses reported hearing screams the night he died, raising significant concerns regarding police treatment.
The police initially reported that Albert succumbed to injuries from banging his head against a wall, a claim the police chief later retracted in light of conflicting evidence. The investigation revealed that Albert had been a target due to online posts that criticized Deputy Police Chief Eliud Lagat, allegedly involving corruption.
As the public grapples with the shocking nature of these events, President William Ruto has called for a transparent investigation, reinforcing his prior commitment to combat police brutality. Yet, the population remains wary, with many doubting genuine reform due to the systemic issues arising from institutionalized violence.
The tragic loss has deeply affected Ojwang’s family, particularly his widow, Nevnina Onyango, who mourns not just the loss of her husband but the future they planned together. She expresses hope that this tragedy may catalyze a substantive discussion about police accountability in Kenya, urging citizens to participate actively in demanding change.
The death of Albert Ojwang is painting a stark picture of the urgent need for justice and systemic reform in Kenya's law enforcement, as the protests grow and the nation reassesses the integrity of its police force.
