A visit to Chiromo Mortuary turned into a deeply emotional scene as renowned comedian and activist Eric Omondi stood beside Meshack Opiyo, the grieving father of the late blogger Albert Ojwang. Overcome by sorrow, Meshack leaned on Eric for support during the heartbreaking moment he viewed his son’s lifeless body.
In a widely shared video, the atmosphere was filled with anguish as the two men, their faces etched with pain, stood in silent mourning. Eric, visibly moved, gently embraced the distraught father and offered words of comfort. The weight of the moment was evident, not only from the grief but also from the growing frustration surrounding the circumstances of Albert’s death.
Eric took the opportunity to speak candidly about the need to care for bereaved families beyond the funeral. He highlighted the importance of offering emotional, psychological, and financial support to those left behind. “We may not bring Albert back, but we can help ease the pain,” he said before leading a heartfelt prayer.
Following his passionate plea, he shared a mobile number to facilitate contributions to support Ojwang’s family. The response was overwhelming, with Kenyans rallying behind the cause and sending in donations within an hour. The spontaneous show of unity and compassion reflected just how much Albert’s story has resonated across the country.
Albert Ojwang died shortly after his arrest by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). Initially, the police claimed he sustained fatal injuries after hitting his head while in custody. However, an autopsy released on June 10 revealed a more harrowing reality—Albert had been beaten to death. The findings sparked outrage, with Kenyans taking to the streets in protest and calling for accountability.
The video of Eric comforting Meshack has stirred a wave of emotional responses online. Many shared messages of sympathy and calls for long-term support for the grieving father. Some even proposed the establishment of an income-generating project or property in Albert’s memory to ensure his father’s wellbeing.
One comment echoed the national mood: “If a million Kenyans give just 50 shillings, we can raise 50 million. It won’t bring back this young man, but it will bring comfort.” Another said, “They killed my only child and went home to their children with milk and bread.” The pain in that statement captured the raw reality of a father’s unimaginable loss.
Amid the grief, there have also been concerns about Albert’s digital presence. His X account, where he was accused of posting controversial content, mysteriously disappeared following his arrest. Attempts to locate the specific post allegedly tied to his detainment have been unsuccessful, further deepening public suspicion and frustration.
As the nation mourns the tragic loss of a young voice silenced too soon, many continue to demand justice, truth, and a lasting legacy that will honor Albert Ojwang’s memory while standing in solidarity with his father.