Many questions are being asked after the sudden and suspicious death of a well-known social media influencer and teacher, Albert Ojwang, who passed away while in police custody shortly after his arrest.
Ojwang’s father confirmed his death on Sunday, June 8. He had travelled from Homa Bay to Central Police Station in Nairobi to understand why his son had been arrested, only to be met with the devastating news.
Albert Ojwang, who was a teacher based in Voi, had gained popularity on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) for his outspoken views on politics. Reports say he was arrested on Saturday while visiting family in Migori town.
He was reportedly taken by officers dressed in civilian clothes, who did not offer a clear reason for the arrest.
According to his father, the officers said only that Ojwang had “insulted their boss” on X. “They handcuffed him right in front of us,” the father said. “When I asked them why they were taking him, they said he had insulted their boss online.
They told me that if I wanted to know more, I should follow them to the police station.”
There are unconfirmed claims suggesting that Ojwang was arrested under suspicion of publishing false information. However, it’s still not clear who the posts were directed at or what exactly was said.
The family’s lawyer explained that Ojwang’s father was initially told to go to Nairobi on Monday, as his son was expected to appear in court. However, he decided to travel earlier on Sunday instead.
“While I was in church, he called me to say he had arrived in Nairobi to check on the case,” the lawyer said. “Later, he called again and told me the police had informed him that his son was dying while in custody. That was deeply shocking.”
The lawyer added, “It’s tragic. The issue they mentioned as the basis of the investigation was a social media post on Twitter. I never imagined such a matter would end with someone losing their life.”
Kenya’s Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act (2018) makes it a crime to knowingly spread false information through print, broadcast, or online platforms. It is believed that this law may have been cited in Ojwang’s case.
After being arrested in Migori, Ojwang was transported over 400 kilometers to Nairobi. He was booked at Central Police Station, where police said they would carry out further investigations.
Shortly after news of his arrest began spreading online, disturbing reports surfaced that Ojwang had suffered serious head injuries. Authorities claimed that the injuries were self-inflicted and suggested he had attempted to harm himself while in custody.
Police later said Ojwang did not die at the station, but rather passed away on the way to the hospital.
Despite their explanation, many Kenyans, especially his followers, have expressed doubts about the official version of events and are demanding answers.
Renowned lawyer Paul Muite confirmed Ojwang’s death in a statement posted on X. He wrote:
“Rest in peace, Albert Ojwang.
The Government thinks it can silence the truth by claiming you committed suicide while in police custody, just like it has done to other Gen Zs it has unlawfully executed. This will not be forgotten. Those behind your death will be held responsible for these crimes.”
The mysterious circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death have sparked public outcry, with many calling for a thorough and independent investigation to uncover the truth and ensure justice for the late teacher and activist.
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