By Vivian Anyango
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has formally denied any involvement in the controversial death of blogger and teacher Albert Omondi Ojwang, as public pressure mounts on government institutions to account for the circumstances surrounding his arrest and subsequent death.
In a statement issued Wednesday, the DCI distanced itself from allegations linking its officers to the killing, amid rising public outrage and condemnation from opposition leaders and civil society groups.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has assured the public that a full investigation is underway, pledging that justice will be served. IPOA emphasized its commitment to transparency, stating that those found culpable will be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Ojwang, 31, was reportedly arrested in Homa Bay before being transferred to Nairobi, where he later died in police custody—a timeline that remains shrouded in mystery and has prompted national concern.
The Senate on Wednesday suspended its full-day sitting agenda to urgently address the issue, with lawmakers demanding a comprehensive statement from Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Kipchumba Murkomen, who also oversees aspects of national security.
CS Murkomen, while addressing the Senate, assured legislators that his ministry had already initiated efforts to track down those involved.
“We are taking this matter very seriously and are committed to ensuring that justice is served. No one will be shielded,” Murkomen said.
Senators expressed concern over the opaque nature of Ojwang’s arrest, particularly questioning the decision to transfer him across counties without proper legal documentation or communication to his family.
Meanwhile, President William Ruto has sent his condolences to the bereaved family, describing Ojwang’s death as “heartbreaking.” In a statement released by State House, the president urged the police to fully cooperate with IPOA in its ongoing investigations.
“We must ensure accountability at every level. I have directed the police department to give IPOA the full support it needs to uncover the truth and bring justice to the family of Albert Ojwang,” President Ruto said.
The case has rekindled concerns about police brutality and extra-judicial killings in Kenya, with human rights defenders calling for broader reforms within law enforcement.
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