Kenyans refuse to accept Ruto’s statement on Albert Ojwang’s death

The country remains in mourning following the tragic death of Albert Omondi Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher and social media influencer who died in police custody on June 7, 2025. As shock and anger continue to spread, President William Ruto has spoken publicly for the first time, calling for accountability and a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death.

In a statement delivered by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, the President conveyed his deep condolences to Ojwang’s family and condemned any abuse of power by the police.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to Meshack Ojwang and his family for the cruel loss of their beloved son. This tragic occurrence at the hands of the police is both heartbreaking and unacceptable,” Ruto said.

He emphasized the critical duty of care that police officers must uphold when someone is taken into custody.

“Every member of the National Police Service must remember that once they detain a person, they assume full responsibility for their safety and well-being. This duty must be carried out with absolute diligence.”

President Ruto called on the National Police Service to fully cooperate with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to ensure a transparent, credible, and swift investigation. He also stressed the importance of rooting out misconduct and unprofessional behavior within police ranks while maintaining law and order.

“We must address crime decisively, but we must also confront and eliminate wrongdoing from within the security forces.”

Ruto appealed for public patience and vigilance, urging Kenyans not to jump to conclusions before the investigation is complete.

“Let us follow this process closely, without premature judgments that may compromise the search for truth and justice.”

He concluded with a commitment to accountability:

“I fully expect that the truth about what happened to Ojwang will come to light, and justice will be done.”

Public Reaction: Distrust, Skepticism, and Demands for Action

Despite the President’s assurances, reactions on social media platform X reflected a deeply skeptical public, with many expressing doubt that justice would be served.

• @KevOhanda: “Ruto’s words sound nice, but actions speak louder. We’ve heard this before—where’s the justice?”

• @Wanjiru254: “Finally, Ruto speaks! But can we trust police to investigate themselves? IPOA must take the lead.”

• @OtienoJnr: “Heartfelt condolences? Spare us! This smells like a cover-up unless proven otherwise.”

• @GraceMuthoni: “A step forward—if IPOA truly acts. Hoping for justice for Albert’s family.”

• @Maina254: “Ruto’s playing politics. The police killed Ojwang. We all know it—investigation or not.”

• @ShirohKE: “Condolences mean nothing without accountability. Ruto, show us change.”

• @DennisOchieng_: “IPOA better act independently. Ojwang’s death must not be swept under the rug.”

• @AumaJoyce: “Ruto’s words are right—but why the delay? Families are suffering in silence.”

• @Kamau254: “This is just PR. The system protects its own. Ojwang’s family deserves more.”

• @EstherNabwire: “Let justice be served. Albert’s father’s pain is all of ours.”

• @JumaAliKE: “Good start, but trust is broken. Justice needs arrests, not statements.”

Autopsy Report Raises Further Questions

The demand for answers has intensified following the autopsy findings released on June 10, which revealed significant trauma inconsistent with claims that Ojwang sustained self-inflicted injuries.

Ojwang was initially arrested in Homa Bay over an alleged offensive post on X, transferred to Nairobi, and later died in custody — a sequence of events now under intense scrutiny. His death comes amid reports of over 80 abductions linked to last year’s anti-tax protests, fueling fears of state-sanctioned intimidation.

As investigations continue, pressure mounts on authorities to deliver justice not just for Albert Ojwang, but for a nation grappling with concerns over police brutality, freedom of expression, and government accountability.