Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi has urged Kenyans to remain calm following the controversial death of influencer Albert Ojwang in police custody. Officers linked to the case have been interdicted as investigations continue.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has broken his silence following the tragic death of social media influencer Albert Ojwang, who died under mysterious circumstances while in police custody at Central Police Station.
Addressing the matter on Monday, June 9, CS Wandayi appealed for calm from the public, especially the family and friends of Ojwang, as investigations are ongoing. “I appeal for calm and understanding from all Kenyans as we await the findings of the investigation,” he stated.
The Energy CS also commended Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja for swiftly suspending officers who were on duty during the incident. “This action by the IG is commendable. It’s a strong signal that the government is keen on accountability,” Wandayi added.
Ojwang was reportedly arrested on June 7 in Homa Bay County and later transported to Nairobi’s Central Police Station. According to the National Police Service (NPS), he sustained head injuries after allegedly hitting a wall in the cell. He was rushed to Mbagathi Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The explanation sparked a national outcry, with many Kenyans on X (formerly Twitter) calling for justice. Some even threatened to stage protests outside the police station.
On Sunday night, IG Kanja suspended several officers including the OCS, duty officer, and the cell sentry. The NPS stated this was to facilitate a transparent probe by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
Calls for justice continue to grow, with civil society groups and political leaders demanding answers over the incident that has reignited debate on police brutality in Kenya.
Read more on related topics:
- Albert Ojwang Death: What We Know So Far
- Recent Arrests in Homa Bay Raise Alarm
- External: Standard Media coverage on Ojwang’s death
