Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has vowed that all police officers involved in the death of Albert Ojwang while in custody will be held accountable, emphasizing that justice will not be compromised. His remarks came during a heated Senate session on Wednesday, where Senators raised concerns over the rising cases of police brutality, with Ojwang’s case sparking national outrage.
“This accountability is not negotiable, it’s not debatable,” CS Murkomen asserted. “We expect every police officer who was involved in this matter to be brought to justice expeditiously.”
Murkomen’s comments mark a strong stance by the Interior Ministry on police misconduct, an issue that has plagued Kenya’s justice system for decades. He assured lawmakers and Kenyans that his office will not shield any officers involved and insisted that Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome must ensure full transparency and accountability.
“Let it be known that in the same manner this House is demanding accountability, I too demand it—not for myself, but for the people of Kenya,” the CS told Senators.
The tragic death of Ojwang has stirred deep emotions across the country. He died under unclear circumstances while in police custody, with reports indicating he may have been tortured. The incident has amplified calls for urgent reforms and accountability in law enforcement.
Murkomen acknowledged that police brutality is not a new concern, but insisted that under the 2010 Constitution, mechanisms now exist to hold officers accountable—unlike in the past.
“The issue of police brutality has been part of our national discourse for far too long,” he noted. “Yesterday, there was no mechanism for accountability. Today, we have a legal framework and institutions that can and must act.”
Condemning the incident, Murkomen sent heartfelt condolences to Ojwang’s family. “The tragic death while in police custody has deeply pained the conscience of our nation,” he said. “One life lost is one too many. I promise his family that I will cooperate fully to ensure justice is served.”
As investigations continue, the public now looks to the government to make good on its promise to uphold justice and human rights.
