Ruto terms Albert Ojwang’s death ‘cruel loss’ to a parent

President William Ruto has expressed his profound sorrow over the incident where Albert Ojwang, a popular blogger, died shortly after being arrested by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kakot, Homa Bay County.

The commander in chief extended heartfelt condolences to Ojwang's family, particularly to his father, Mr. Meshack Ojwang, for their "cruel loss."

"Like most Kenyans, and especially as a parent, I received the news of the death of Albert Ojwang while in police custody with utter shock and deep dismay" he stated.

Ruto condemned the circumstances surrounding Ojwang's death, labeling it "heartbreaking and unacceptable."

He emphasized that the police bear a significant responsibility for the safety and well-being of individuals in their custody. "It must be borne in mind by every member of the National Police Service that whenever they take a person into custody, they assume a tremendous responsibility for that individual's safety," he stated.

The president called for a thorough investigation into the matter, urging the National Police Service to cooperate fully with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority.

"I therefore call on the National Police Service to fully cooperate with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority and to take every necessary measure to facilitate a swift, transparent, and credible investigation into the death of Ojwang," he said.

As Kenyans mourn the loss of Ojwang, many are demanding answers and accountability from law enforcement agencies.

The incident raises serious questions about police conduct and the treatment of individuals in custody. Ruto urged the public to follow the progress of the investigations patiently while avoiding premature judgments that could hinder the process.

"I fully expect that the truth about what happened to Ojwang will be established in due course, and that justice will be served," he concluded.

Ojwang was taken into custody on Saturday afternoon as part of an investigation into a social media post he allegedly made. His untimely death has ignited widespread outrage and calls for accountability within the National Police Service.