Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has
called for calm and patience as investigations into the tragic death
of Albert Omondi Ojwang continue.
Ojwang allegedly sustained fatal head injuries
while in police custody, which led to his demise.
Speaking on Monday, Wandayi expressed his heartfelt
condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, emphasising the need to
allow the due process of investigation to unfold before drawing any
conclusions.
“First and foremost, I must extend my condolences to the
family and friends of the young man, Albert Ojwang,” Wandayi said.
“As we speak, we are
not privy to all the details surrounding his untimely and unfortunate demise.”
Wandayi acknowledged that a preliminary statement was released by
the National Police Service on the matter, confirming that official
investigations are currently underway.
He urged the public to remain patient as authorities work to
uncover the full circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death.
“Having said that, it is important to appreciate that the
government, through the National Police Service, issued a preliminary statement
yesterday (Sunday). That statement was a first step, and we understand that investigations
are still ongoing,” he said.
Wandayi also commended the immediate action taken by the
police, revealing that key officers who may have had knowledge of or
involvement in the incident have already been suspended pending further
inquiry.
“I must commend the police, because they have taken a
commendable first step by suspending key officers within the service who could
have taken action or were aware of the happenings around the unfortunate demise
of this gentleman,” Wandayi said.
Wandayi appealed for calm and understanding, particularly
from Ojwang’s family and the Kenyan public at large, emphasising that emotional
reactions are natural but that accurate conclusions must be based on verified
facts.
“Usually, when such incidents occur, they evoke a lot of
emotions naturally. Until we fully understand the circumstances surrounding his
arrest and how he eventually met his death, it is difficult to comment with
authority,” he said.
Ojwang reportedly sustained head injuries after allegedly
being assaulted in custody, with police claims suggesting he hit his head
against a wall.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing.