National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has directed Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to appear before the House on Wednesday, June 25, to answer questions surrounding the controversial death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang. This directive comes in response to rising public outrage and dissatisfaction among MPs with the initial investigations into the incident.
Ojwang, who was arrested by police and later died in custody on June 7, has become a symbol of what lawmakers are calling a disturbing pattern of police impunity. His death triggered nationwide protests and sharp criticism from civil society and political leaders.
The decision to summon CS Murkomen followed a report tabled by Gabriel Tongoyo, chairperson of the National Assembly’s National Security and Internal Administration Committee. The report, which drew from findings by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), the Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, and DCI Mohamed Amin, failed to convince MPs, including Kabondo Kasipul MP Eve Obara, who initially raised the matter.
Obara expressed disappointment in the IPOA report, questioning the legality of Ojwang’s transfer from Homa Bay to Nairobi and accusing authorities of evading key issues. “The gravity of the situation has not sunk in. If it had, we wouldn’t be witnessing recurring brutality,” she remarked.
Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji criticized the IPOA statement as inadequate and suggested that a commission of inquiry should be formed to independently investigate the matter. He emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability in handling the case.
Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo went further, accusing IPOA of compromising its independence by collaborating too closely with the police. He called for an ad hoc committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death and warned of the country slipping into lawlessness.
Speaker Wetang’ula acknowledged the matter’s sensitivity, noting ongoing investigations, but insisted Parliament had a constitutional duty to seek accountability. “The House must remain mindful of the sub judice rule, but also address matters of public interest,” he stated.
Murkomen’s appearance is expected to shed light on the government’s stance and actions regarding the high-profile case.
