Former Deputy Rigathi Gachagua has condemned the death of Albert Ojwang and called on the police agencies to move with speed in the investigations.
The death of Ojwang, a young man who died in police custody under unclear circumstances, has ignited widespread outrage across Kenya, with activists, political leaders, and citizens demanding justice and accountability.
“In the strongest terms possible, I condemn this cowardly act by killers and call for speedy investigations. Culprits must be brought to book,” he said.
Ojwang was reportedly arrested after making a social media post that criticised a senior police official.
He was transferred from Homa Bay to Central Police Station in Nairobi, where he later died.
His family and supporters believe his arrest and subsequent death were politically motivated.
“This was not just a death, it was a public execution in custody. Albert’s only crime was expressing his opinion online. For that, he was taken and detained. This regime must be held responsible,” Gachagua said.
Gachagua said he stands with Ojwang’s family in seeking justice.
“What have the young people, small children, done to deserve these macabre killings? What have the parents done to lose their children?” he posed.
Ojwang, a teacher based in Voi, was arrested on Saturday in Homa Bay town over what authorities described as a “derogatory” post on X.
He had travelled to Homa Bay to visit family when he was picked up by police officers.
Ojwang was driven to Nairobi and booked at Central Police Station for further questioning.
Police said he died by suicide after allegedly injuring himself while alone in a cell.
Ojwang was found with serious head injuries believed to be self-inflicted and was rushed to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.