Former Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has called on Kenyans to demand accountability and justice after the death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang, who passed away while in police custody.
Muturi is insisting that the officers responsible be held to account, echoing concerns raised by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).
Speaking out strongly, Muturi expressed deep concern over what he described as a disturbing trend of state power being abused by individuals pursuing personal or political agendas.
He pointed out that Kenya appears to be witnessing a steady decline in constitutional freedoms — a worrying sign for any democratic nation.
“There seems to be a decline in constitutional freedom in the country,” Muturi stated, as the public continues to question why Ojwang, who was arrested in Homa Bay, was transported all the way to Nairobi, where he eventually died while being held at Central Police Station.
Rising Fears Over Police Targeting Critics
The unexplained chain of events leading to Ojwang’s death has sparked public outrage and intensified fears that law enforcement may be targeting critics, treating freedom of speech as a crime.
Muturi, who previously served as the Attorney General, said this tragic case highlights the growing misuse of police power to suppress dissent, rather than uphold justice.
“This disturbing pattern of events is feeding a dangerous narrative — that law enforcement is being weaponised to silence opposing voices,” Muturi said.
He specifically mentioned Deputy Inspector General Eliud Langat, the senior officer who filed the complaint that led to Ojwang’s arrest.
A System That Silences Instead of Protects
Muturi condemned the ongoing misuse of police authority, warning that the state apparatus seems more focused on shutting down criticism than protecting citizens’ rights. He emphasized that this is not just about one life lost, but a symptom of a deeper problem within the country’s justice system.
“A young man is dead. And now, as a country, we must come face to face with the rot within our criminal justice system. The question is no longer only about what happened to Albert Ojwang — it’s also about who might be next,” Muturi warned.
He urged all Kenyans to take this moment seriously and use it as a rallying point to demand better from the police. According to Muturi, Ojwang’s death must become a wake-up call to the nation — a reason to reflect on how far the country has veered from protecting freedom of expression.
Defamation Is Not a Crime – Yet Police Still Arrest Critics
Muturi further reminded Kenyans that criminal defamation was abolished in 2017 by a High Court ruling, making it illegal for the police to arrest anyone over speech-related issues under the guise of defamation. Yet, police officers continue to detain people using vague accusations like “false publication.”
This, according to Muturi, is unlawful and unacceptable in a democratic society. He noted that criticism, satire, and even harsh public commentary are part of free speech — even if they make those in power uncomfortable.
“We must stand up and demand answers — not only about Ojwang’s death but about the way the police are being used to intimidate and punish people who speak out. We must protect our right to express our views, frustrations, and even anger,” Muturi urged.
Kenyans Must Rise and Demand Accountability
Muturi issued a clarion call to Kenyans to treat this incident as a turning point. He emphasized that the country cannot afford to continue down a path where the police act like political enforcers instead of public servants.
“We must demand accountability. For Albert Ojwang. For the misuse of police authority. For the slow erosion of our right to speak our minds freely. The police must stop acting like they serve the powerful. They are meant to serve the people,” Muturi stated firmly.
KNCHR Joins the Push for Justice
Backing Muturi’s call, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) also spoke out, calling for full transparency regarding the case. Commissioner Prof. Marion Mutugi urged the government to release a clear, detailed report explaining what exactly happened — from the moment Ojwang was arrested in Homa Bay, to his transfer, detention, and the final hours before his death.
Kenyans across the country are now waiting for answers, with growing pressure on law enforcement and government officials to restore public trust and ensure that justice is served — not just for Albert Ojwang, but for the many others whose rights have been violated in silence.
Join Gen Z New WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
