Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has called for an independent and transparent investigation into the death of Albert Omondi Ojwang’, a teacher who died under mysterious circumstances while in police custody.
In a statement released on June 9, 2025, Wanga expressed deep concern over Ojwang’s death, terming the circumstances surrounding it as “unclear and troubling.” Ojwang, who was based in Voi, had travelled to Homa Bay to visit family when he was arrested on Saturday for a social media post deemed “derogatory” by authorities. He was subsequently transferred to Nairobi and detained at the Central Police Station.
Police claim that Ojwang died by suicide after allegedly injuring himself in a holding cell. Nairobi Central Police boss Stephen Okal stated, “He had injured himself in the head and was rushed to the hospital, where he died. He did not die here in custody.” However, the incident has triggered public outrage and renewed calls for police accountability.
“No family should suffer the loss of a loved one under such unclear and troubling circumstances, especially while in the custody of state institutions sworn to protect lives,” Governor Wanga stated. She emphasized that police brutality has no place in society and urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to expedite investigations and publicly release its findings.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has also weighed in, demanding a swift and thorough investigation, asserting that those responsible must be held accountable. In response to growing public pressure, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja ordered the suspension of top officers at Central Police Station pending further inquiry.
Wanga pledged solidarity with Ojwang’s grieving family and called for immediate support to assist them through the tragedy. “This incident underscores the pressing need for police accountability and custodial safeguards,” she noted.
Ojwang’s body has since been moved to the mortuary pending an autopsy. His death has sparked national concern over the treatment of detainees and the urgent need for reforms in police conduct and oversight mechanisms. As investigations unfold, the nation watches closely, demanding justice and transparency.
