When Albert Ojwang was picked up from home by DCI officers over a social media post, little did his father know that it would be the last time he would see his son alive.
Albert, a teacher based in Voi and active on X , had travelled to Migori to visit family. On Saturday, June 7, plainclothes officers arrived and arrested him.
His father, shocked and confused, asked why.
“They said he had insulted their boss on X,” the father recalled. “They told me to follow them to the police station if I wanted more information.”
Albert, reportedly arrested over a post concerning the Deputy IG of Police Eliud Lagat, was not taken to a nearby station.
Instead, he was driven hundreds of kilometres to Nairobi and booked at Central Police Station.
A day later, on Sunday, June 8, his father travelled to Nairobi to follow up. That is when he was informed his son, Albert Ojwang had died.
How did Albert Ojwang Die?
Police said Albert was found in his cell with serious head injuries. They claimed he had attempted to take his own life and was rushed to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
“He did not die here in custody,” said Nairobi Central Police boss Stephen Okal. “He died at the hospital after what we believe was a suicide attempt.”
But the family is not satisfied with that explanation.
His father had been told to expect Albert in court on Monday. Instead, he found himself at the mortuary.
A family lawyer questioned the circumstances. “The offence was reportedly a social media post. That should not lead to someone losing their life.”
Albert’s death has sparked anger and grief across social media. He was known for his outspoken political commentary and was popular among Kenya’s Gen Z online community.
Human rights groups have called for an independent investigation. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is expected to join the probe.
Albert’s father is left with deep pain and unanswered questions. “I just want the truth,” he said. “And I want justice for my son.”
By Vivian K.