The tragic death of Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old blogger arrested for alleged online defamation, has sparked nationwide outrage in Kenya. His family alleges police brutality, and the subsequent investigation has uncovered a harrowing account of his final moments, leading to calls for accountability and reform within the National Police Service.
Tragedy and Outrage: The Death of Blogger Albert Ojwang Rattles Kenya's Police Force
Tragedy and Outrage: The Death of Blogger Albert Ojwang Rattles Kenya's Police Force
The suspicious death of a young blogger in Kenyan police custody has ignited a wave of protests and calls for justice, revealing deep-rooted issues of police brutality and accountability.
The death of 31-year-old blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody has sent shockwaves across Kenya, igniting public outcry and demands for justice. Ojwang, arrested on June 7, 2025, in his hometown Kakoth for allegedly insulting a police chief on social media, was found dead the following day at Central Police Station in Nairobi. His father, devastated by the loss of his only son, described discovering a bloodied and bruised body that starkly differed from his son’s well-being upon arrest, leading to suspicions of foul play.
Ojwang's death has sparked widespread protests under the hashtag #JusticeForAlbertOjwang, highlighting a pattern of police brutality in Kenya. Historically plagued by reports of unlawful killings and misconduct, this case has drawn additional scrutiny due to revelations surrounding the circumstances of Ojwang’s death. The situation escalated to the point where members of Parliament summoned high-ranking police officials, indicating the seriousness with which the matter is being treated.
Colleagues and family members have painted a picture of Ojwang as a passionate educator, blogger, and family man who actively participated in social discourses through social media. The threat of police abuse loomed over his arrest, with his wife expressing concern for his safety. The case highlights deep-seated issues within Kenya's law enforcement, as activists recall similar injustices involving young people, especially during last year’s anti-tax protests that claimed more than 60 lives.
The ongoing investigation has taken unexpected turns, with police chief Douglas Kanja forced to retract earlier statements regarding Ojwang's death, leading to increased calls for accountability. Testimonies from witnesses in adjacent cells reported hearing screams the night of his death, while investigations revealed that CCTV cameras were disabled under dubious circumstances. Two police officers have since been arrested, with claims suggesting orders were issued for violence against Ojwang.
In response to public demands for transparency, President William Ruto expressed shock and grief over the tragedy, urging for a thorough investigation. Despite this, skepticism remains prevalent among citizens, as reports of extrajudicial killings continue to plague Kenya, with the non-governmental organization (NGO) monitoring rights violations recording significant cases in recent months.
Ojwang's widow, Neviana Onyango, has emerged as a poignant voice amidst national grief, calling for awareness about abuses of power within police custody. Her plea for collective action resonates across the country, amplifying the conversation surrounding human rights and accountability in law enforcement. The case stands not only as a singular tragedy but as a rallying point for citizens advocating for systemic change in Kenya's approach to policing and justice.
