ODM MPs demand independent probe into blogger Albert Ojwang's death

The legislators have dismissed the police’s preliminary findings—suggesting Ojwang took his own life in a cell at Central Police Station—as “unconvincing” and “deeply troubling.”

Led by Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo, the MPs warned of what they see as a worrying return of police brutality, particularly targeting young people critical of the government.

“We cannot have this,” said Odhiambo. “We have buried too many young people. We cannot bury another one. This cannot continue.”

The lawmakers accused the government of reneging on its promises to end extrajudicial killings. Their anger was directed squarely at President William Ruto, who, they said, had pledged to personally rein in rogue state officers.

“The president himself said he would take it upon himself to bring rogue government officials to order,” Odhiambo added. “Please, Mr. President, strike the whip.”

Suba North MP Dr. James Nyikal underscored the gravity of the situation, saying, “A country where a person arrested dies in the hands of the police is a dead country.”

Other opposition voices joined in, demanding not just accountability but a formal inquest into the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death.

“Investigative authorities must give us full accountability,” said nominated Senator Catherine Mumma. “We demand a thorough inquest into this death.”

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino rejected the narrative that Ojwang fatally injured himself inside the cell.

“The stories we are being given—that he hit his head several times on the wall—do not add up,” Owino stated. “We need truthful, factual answers.”

The Council of Governors also condemned the incident, saying the state must deliver justice to Ojwang’s family. Speaking on behalf of the council, Mandera Governor Mohamed Khalif Abdullahi said, “The family of Albert must get justice. All those involved must be brought to book and face justice.”

In Kitui County, where Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua led an economic empowerment tour, leaders accompanying him echoed the growing calls for accountability. National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah acknowledged the swift action by police leadership but urged further steps.

“We thank the IG for the quick response,” Ichung’wah said. “But we want to see more heads roll.”

Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot emphasized the role of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), noting, “IPOA must restore public confidence. Those officers must face the law.”

Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula, also speaking from Kitui, expressed disbelief over the police’s version of events.