A growing chorus of governors across Kenya has called for urgent action and accountability following the death of social media influencer Albert Ojwang while in police custody. The Council of Governors (CoG), led by chairperson Ahmed Abdulahi, issued a stern statement demanding a swift and thorough investigation, condemning the incident as “deeply troubling” and “unjustifiable.”
Ojwang, who was arrested in Homa Bay County, died at Nairobi’s Central Police Station under controversial circumstances. According to police, Ojwang allegedly died by suicide after injuring himself while alone in a cell. However, the CoG has questioned the rationale behind transferring him across counties instead of charging him locally in Homa Bay.
“Such deaths are unacceptable,” said Abdulahi. “Whatever he was accused of, it should have been handled in Homa Bay. The sanctity of life must be upheld at all costs.”
The governors believe Ojwang was denied due process and have demanded full transparency from the police. They insist that all individuals involved, directly or indirectly, be held accountable under the law.
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, who chairs the CoG Finance Committee, echoed the calls for justice and urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to expedite its investigation and provide answers to the bereaved family.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has confirmed that IPOA was formally notified and will handle the investigation as required by law. In a significant move toward ensuring accountability, Kanja announced the immediate interdiction of all officers involved in the incident. Those interdicted include the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Central Police Station, the duty officer on the night of the incident, the cell sentry, officers at the report desk, and any others found to have had a role.
Ojwang’s death has sparked outrage across the country, especially among Kenya’s Gen Z population, who have increasingly voiced concerns over police conduct and custodial deaths. The Council of Governors is standing firmly with the family and the public in demanding justice and a comprehensive review of police practices related to detainee treatment.
