President William Samoei Ruto has issued a strong condemnation following the tragic death of Albert Ojwang, who passed away while in police custody.
In a solemn statement released from State House, the President expressed shock, dismay, and sorrow over the incident, which he described as “heartbreaking and unacceptable.”
Addressing the nation, President Ruto extended his deepest condolences to Mr. Meshack Ojwang and his family, acknowledging their profound 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 said.
The President criticized the conduct of the officers involved, warning against negligence and potential criminality within the National Police Service.
He emphasized that the police bear full responsibility for the safety and well-being of anyone in their custody, adding that failure in this duty compromises public trust.
“The National Police Service is the nation’s trusted custodian of the security of all persons and property,” President Ruto noted.
“They must always uphold this trust in order to secure and maintain legitimacy and credibility in the eyes of the people.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to enhancing police accountability, the President urged the police service to cooperate fully with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to ensure a transparent and credible investigation. He underscored the importance of allowing due process, urging the public to remain vigilant but patient as investigations proceed.
“As we mourn his passing, let us… avoid premature judgments or conclusions that could compromise the process,” he said.
“I fully expect that the truth about what happened to Ojwang will be established in due course, and that justice will be served.”
The statement comes amid growing calls for police reform and heightened scrutiny of law enforcement practices across the country.
Written By Rodney Mbua
