US Speaks On Albert Ojwang Murder, Issues Demands

The United States (US) Embassy in Kenya is pushing for a thorough and transparent investigation into the death of blogger Albert Ojwang.

Ojwang died on Sunday while in custody at Nairobi’s Central Police Station. A post-mortem revealed he suffered a head injury, likely from an assault.

In a statement released Wednesday, the Embassy urged the Kenyan government to hold those involved accountable and ensure justice is served.

"The Embassy of the United States of America extends our condolences to the family and loved ones of Albert Ojwang during this time of mourning," the statement read in part.

"Noting concerns around the circumstances of Ojwang’s death, the Embassy supports calls from government, parliamentarians, and Kenyan citizens for accountability through a transparent investigation."

"The Embassy urges the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to conduct its ongoing investigation swiftly and thoroughly. We also call on the Kenyan government to ensure IPOA has the access and support needed to perform its duties," added the statement.

Earlier, President William Ruto directed the police to fully cooperate with IPOA in its investigation to uncover the truth behind Ojwang's death.

"I therefore call on the National Police Service to fully cooperate with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority and to take every necessary measure to facilitate a swift, transparent, and credible investigation into the death of Ojwang," Ruto said in a statement shared by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed.

He also issued a stern warning to the police for failing to protect Ojwang while he was in their custody, emphasising that the National Police Service is responsible for the safety of anyone in their care.

Ojwang’s death prompted the Senate to suspend its regular proceedings to address the incident. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Inspector General Douglas Kanja, and DCI Director Amin Mohammed were questioned by lawmakers, alongside IPOA deputy chair Ann Wanjiku, who also appeared before the House.

Their appearance followed the release of autopsy results showing that Ojwang died from torture and strangulation, contradicting the police’s initial claim that he had died by suicide. IG Kanja has since issued a public apology for the misleading report.