LSK demands answers over Albert Ojwang’s death
LSK President Faith Odhiambo demanded a swift and thorough investigation into Ojwang’s death, insisting that those responsible be held accountable.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has called on government security agencies to provide clear answers regarding the death of Albert Ojwang.
Ojwang was reportedly detained on Saturday in Homa Bay town over what officials described as a "derogatory" post on X (formerly Twitter).
According to the police, Ojwang died after allegedly hitting his head against the cell wall.
He was found with severe head wounds believed to be self-inflicted and was rushed to a hospital, where he was declared dead.
On Sunday, LSK President Faith Odhiambo demanded a swift and thorough investigation into Ojwang’s death, insisting that those responsible be held accountable.
She emphasized that just as Kenyan citizens are expected to obey the law, law enforcement officers must also uphold legal standards fairly.
"We urge the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to take immediate action on this case. We call for an independent inquiry and a prompt post-mortem to prevent any evidence tampering, so that both the family and the public can know the truth," Odhiambo stated.
"We demand answers, the truth, and that those responsible for this death be held personally accountable," Odhiambo added.
Amnesty International, a prominent human rights organization, also condemned Ojwang’s death, stressing that no Kenyan should die while in police custody, where their safety is the state’s responsibility.
The group called for a prompt and transparent investigation, insisting the results be made public and any officers found culpable be brought to justice.
They emphasized that police have both a legal and ethical obligation to protect the welfare of all individuals in their custody.
"The death of Albert Ojwang in detention raises serious concerns that must be urgently and independently investigated by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR)," the organization stated.
"This tragic case highlights the critical need for transparency, accountability, and comprehensive reforms within our law enforcement agencies."
Ojwang had traveled to Homa Bay to visit relatives when police detained him.
He was subsequently transferred to Nairobi and held at a police station for further questioning.
