Keypoints:
- President Ruto condemns death of blogger Albert Ojwang
- Postmortem contradicts police claims of self-inflicted injuries
- Rights groups demand accountability, IPOA investigates
KENYAN President William Ruto has condemned the death of popular blogger and schoolteacher Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody, and has ordered a full investigation into the incident.
Ojwang, 31, was arrested on Saturday in Homa Bay over social media posts critical of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Kipkoech Lagat. He was reportedly transferred to Central Police
Station in Nairobi the same day, where he died under disputed circumstances.
A postmortem examination has revealed that Ojwang suffered blunt-force trauma and neck compression, directly challenging initial police statements suggesting his injuries were self-inflicted.
President: ‘Heartbreaking and unacceptable’
In a statement released Wednesday, President Ruto extended his condolences to the Ojwang family and promised a swift, transparent and credible investigation into what he described as a ‘heartbreaking and unacceptable’ loss.
‘I take this moment to extend my heartfelt condolences to Mr. Meshack Ojwang and his family for the cruel loss of their beloved son,’ the president said. ‘This tragic occurrence, at the hands of the police, is heartbreaking and unacceptable. I strongly condemn the actions and omissions, including any negligence or outright criminality, that may have contributed to his untimely death.’
Ruto further directed police to fully cooperate with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), which has already launched an inquiry into Ojwang’s death.
Rights groups demand justice
The case has sparked public outrage and drawn condemnation from Amnesty International Kenya, the Bloggers Association of Kenya (BAKE), Vocal Africa, and the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC). The organisations have called for a thorough, independent investigation and accountability for any officers involved.
Tensions escalated on Monday as police fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators in Nairobi who had gathered to demand justice for Ojwang, further stoking anger over longstanding concerns around police brutality in Kenya.
A pattern of violence and impunity
Kenya’s security forces have long faced allegations of extrajudicial killings and unlawful detentions. In 2023 alone, Amnesty International documented 136 deaths linked to police action. Human Rights Watch has repeatedly cited the frequent use of excessive force, particularly during public demonstrations, with few officers ever held accountable.
Ojwang, who was active on X (formerly Twitter), was known for his sharp commentary on governance and security issues. His death has ignited fresh debate over the safety of online dissent and the urgent need for police reform.
As the IPOA begins its investigation, President Ruto has vowed that anyone found responsible will face justice. ‘Misconduct and criminality within police ranks must be confronted f
irmly,’ he said.
