The tragic death of Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher and blogger, has shocked and angered many Kenyans. His sudden passing has sparked a nationwide outcry, with growing demands for accountability and justice from law enforcement authorities.
Ojwang’s ordeal began on Friday, June 6, when six police officers arrived at his family’s home in Kokoth village, located in Kabondo Kasipul Constituency, Homa Bay County. At around 1:30 p.m., he was arrested in the presence of his wife and their child as they were having lunch under a tree. This peaceful family moment quickly turned into a nightmare that would mark the last time his loved ones saw him alive.
The arrest was reportedly linked to controversial posts Ojwang had shared on social media, criticizing a senior police official. After being briefly held at Mawego Police Station, Ojwang was transferred over 350 kilometers away to Nairobi Central Police Station. His family received no further updates until they were informed that he had died two days later, on Sunday, June 8.
The circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death have left many deeply disturbed. An autopsy conducted by five pathologists revealed that he died from blunt force trauma to the head and had sustained multiple injuries consistent with a violent assault. There were also indications of possible strangulation. These findings strongly suggested that Ojwang was tortured while in police custody, further fueling public outrage.
Ojwang’s lifeless body was initially taken to the Nairobi Funeral Home, and later moved to Chiromo Mortuary after the autopsy was completed on Tuesday, June 10. The grim details of the report ignited widespread fury among citizens, many of whom are now demanding justice and calling for the resignation of the Deputy Inspector General believed to be connected to the case.
The emotional toll on the family has been immense. A heartbreaking video circulated showing Ojwang’s father, Meshack Opiyo, sobbing uncontrollably as he tried to come to terms with the loss of his only child. The depth of pain in his voice and the sorrow on his face touched many, prompting an outpouring of support and condolences from across the country.
Ojwang is survived by his wife and their infant daughter, whom they had welcomed just a few months prior to his death. Those close to him describe him as a passionate and courageous individual, someone who used his platform to speak up on important issues despite the risks.
As investigations continue, pressure is mounting on the authorities to act swiftly and transparently. Kenyans are demanding that those responsible for the brutal death of Albert Ojwang be held accountable. His story has become a powerful symbol of the ongoing struggle for justice and freedom of expression in the country.
The memory of Albert Ojwang now lives on not only through the loved ones he left behind but also through the voices of a nation demanding change.
