Tension is rising in Trans Nzoia County following the death of 22-year-old Albert Ojwang, whose body was found bearing signs of brutal assault, allegedly at the hands of the police. In a strongly worded statement, Trans Nzoia County Assembly Deputy Speaker Mwale Obed has condemned the killing and demanded urgent action from the national government.
Ojwang’s body, now held in a local morgue, was examined by government pathologist Dr. Bernard Midia, who confirmed signs of neck compression and soft tissue injuries. These findings point toward a violent assault and contradict earlier claims by security agencies that no live bullets were used and no deaths were recorded during recent protests.
Speaking outside the County Assembly in Kitale, Hon. Obed described Ojwang as "a vibrant, promising young Kenyan" whose life was cut short by forces meant to protect him. “This is not just a death,” Obed said. “This is a murder. A state-sponsored killing. And we demand answers.”
The Deputy Speaker issued a four-point call to action:
Immediate Resignation of County Police Commander Lagat.Hon. Obed called for Lagat to step aside to ensure a transparent and independent investigation. “Justice cannot be pursued under a cloud of intimidation or bias,” he said.
Disclosure of the Chain of Comman.“The officers involved must reveal who gave the order to use force. The truth must come out. We want names, we want accountability.”
Government Responsibility and Reparations.Obed urged the national government to take full responsibility for Ojwang’s death, compensate the bereaved family, and offer the young man a national burial. “This nation owes Albert Ojwang dignity in death, even if it denied him justice in life.”
Disbandment of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA.Citing consistent failure to hold rogue officers accountable, Obed called for IPOA to be disbanded and replaced with a stronger, independent oversight body. “IPOA has become a shield for impunity. It no longer serves the people.”
The killing of Ojwang has ignited outrage across social media and civil society, with human rights organizations calling for an independent inquiry. Demonstrations are expected in Kitale and other towns this week, as frustrations over police brutality and lack of accountability reach a boiling point.
“This country must decide whether it is governed by the rule of law or by the barrel of a gun,” Obed concluded.
As investigations continue, the eyes of the nation are now fixed on Trans Nzoia, where another young life has become a symbol of Kenya’s long struggle with police violence and systemic injustice.
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