Comedian DJ Shiti has shared a heartfelt reflection on the tragic death of Albert Ojwang, the young teacher and blogger who recently lost his life while in police custody. Speaking in a candid interview, Shiti expressed deep sorrow, revealing he once met Ojwang during an event in the coastal region.
While the two did not know each other personally, DJ Shiti remembered taking a photograph with Ojwang during a university event years ago. The memory of that moment came rushing back when he saw Ojwang’s face widely circulated in the news following the incident. He described how shocking it was to associate a friendly memory with such a tragic outcome. “I may not have known Albert personally,” he said, “but I remember the moment we took that photo. Seeing his face now next to news of his death in police custody breaks my heart. No young Kenyan deserves this.”
The photo in question, originally posted by Ojwang in 2019, captured him sandwiched between a friend and the comedian. It was clear that he admired Shiti’s performance at the time, as he captioned the photo with excitement. That brief encounter has now become a somber reminder of how unpredictable life can be.
Albert Ojwang’s death has deeply disturbed the nation, sparking public outrage and a demand for justice. Details surrounding his demise have raised alarming questions. Surveillance footage from the Central Police Station, where he was being held, was allegedly tampered with, preventing investigators from reviewing what happened in the critical hours before his death.
Following intense public pressure, six police officers were suspended in connection with the case. An autopsy later revealed that Ojwang had suffered injuries inconsistent with initial police claims that he had hit his head on a wall. Instead, signs of neck compression and other trauma suggested he had been assaulted.
The court has since arraigned one officer, Constable James Mukhwana, who issued a message of condolence to Ojwang’s family during proceedings. The response from the public and leaders has been resounding, with many describing the incident as an unacceptable abuse of authority.
President William Ruto weighed in on the matter, stating that the killing was both heartbreaking and unacceptable, affirming that no citizen should suffer such brutality, particularly from those entrusted with public safety.
Beyond the headlines and the courtroom, those who knew Ojwang during his university years have painted a picture of a passionate, driven young man. He studied at Pwani University, pursuing a Bachelor of Education in Kiswahili and Religious Studies. He was also deeply involved in student leadership and played a vital role in rallying support during campus elections—an effort that contributed to the election of a peer who now serves as a Principal Secretary.
Ojwang was known not only for his intelligence and ambition but also for his vibrant personality and love for spending time with friends. His sudden and violent death has left a void in many hearts and continues to stir a broader national conversation about accountability and justice.
