Comedian and activist Eric Omondi has expressed deep disappointment after learning that the father of the late teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang’ accepted a KSh 2 million donation from President William Ruto. Albert’s death in police custody had sparked national outrage, with Kenyans accusing the authorities of a cover-up.
Speaking publicly, Albert’s father, Meshack Ojwang’, revealed that he had received a phone call from the president, who offered his condolences and financial support. He also received a KSh 1 million donation from another political leader, Raila Odinga. While many saw this as a gesture of goodwill, Eric Omondi saw it as betrayal.
Eric, who was among the first public figures to mobilize support for the grieving family, said he felt hurt that the family accepted help from the same government he believes is responsible for Albert’s death. “We lost a brother. He lost a son. In the hands of government agencies. I really felt betrayed,” he said.
Eric detailed how he and other Kenyans had already come through for the family in a big way. He explained that after he shared the father’s contact number, it was quickly overwhelmed with contributions. The same happened when he later shared numbers belonging to Albert’s mother, widow, and other relatives. Additionally, a paybill account he helped set up had already raised KSh 2.6 million. Altogether, Eric estimated that Kenyans had contributed close to KSh 10 million within a few days.
His frustration seemed to stem from the belief that the family had already received enough support from the public and should not have needed money from the government—especially one linked to the circumstances surrounding Albert’s tragic death.
Albert Ojwang’, a 31-year-old teacher and active social media commentator, died after being detained by police. He had reportedly been arrested for allegedly spreading false information about a senior police official. Initial police statements claimed Albert had injured himself, but a postmortem contradicted that narrative. The examination revealed that he had suffered blunt force trauma to the head and multiple injuries consistent with physical assault.
The situation grew even more tense when CCTV footage emerged, showing that Albert was brought to Mbagathi Hospital already deceased. This directly contradicted claims that he died while under medical care. Public outrage intensified, with many calling for the resignation of top police officials involved in the case. Under pressure, Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, who had been named a person of interest in the investigation, stepped aside to allow further inquiries.
As the country mourned and demanded accountability, Eric Omondi and other public figures took it upon themselves to lead a campaign for justice and support the bereaved family. His emotional reaction to the family accepting government help reflects the depth of pain and mistrust many feel towards the institutions implicated in Albert’s death.
Adding to the heartbreak, Albert’s wife, Nevnina Onyango, honoured him on Father’s Day with a moving tribute. She shared a heartfelt WhatsApp message he had sent before his death, revealing plans he had made with their son to celebrate the day. Nevnina vowed to keep his memory alive and ensure their child grows up knowing the kind of man and father Albert was.
The debate continues on social media, where opinions are divided. While some agree with Eric’s sentiments, others argue that grief doesn’t follow politics and that in times of sorrow, any help—no matter the source—should be welcomed.
