Wamuzi News Ke
The bereaved family of 31‑year‑old teacher and blogger Albert Omondi Ojwang has stunned the nation by revealing that Kenyans across the country contributed a staggering Ksh 5.06 million in donations since his death in police custody earlier this month.
The figure was disclosed today by Herman Opiyo, Albert’s uncle, during an emotionally charged public statement at the family home in Kakoth village. He said the funds poured in through official and ad-hoc channels as the nation rallied behind the grieving hohousehold.
“President Ruto gave us Ksh 2 million, Raila Odinga sent Ksh 1 million, and the rest came from Kenyans,” Opiyo affirmed, pleading with opponents to cease criticising the family for accepting support in their time of mourning .
Earlier in June, President William Ruto personally called Albert’s father, Meshack Ojwang, expressing deep sorrow and pledging immediate financial assistance. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga confirmed Ruto’s Ksh 2 million donation and Amani Odinga’s Ksh 1 million condolence contribution .
On top of these, Governor Wanga and local leaders initiated projects to support the family: constructing a two‑bedroom house valued at Ksh 1.5 million, installing electricity, setting up a water point, and covering the young widow’s college fees .
The public’s generosity unfolded rapidly through a Paybill number shared online and grassroots campaigns, which garnered both adulation and scrutiny. The family has faced disparaging remarks, with some critics accusing them of profiting from a tragedy.
Opiyo addressed this directly, calling such mockery “unfair” and noting that even reverse transactions—donors pulling out funds—added to their distress .Albert’s untimely death on June 7 at Nairobi Central Police Station rattled Kenyan society.
Authorities initially suggested self-harm; however, an independent autopsy refuted this, confirming that he died from blunt-force trauma while in custody .
The controversy prompted public outrage, protests, and a swift investigative response. Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat has stepped aside, and six officers are under investigation .
Human rights activists and grieving families nationwide are using Albert’s case to protest a disturbing trend of deaths in custody. Calls for accountability have intensified, with Governor Wanga warning that “police stations are no longer safe” and urging “swift prosecution – justice delayed is justice denied” .
As investigations continue under heavy public pressure, the Ojwang family’s disclosure of over half a billion shillings in support has become emblematic—not only of national grief but of collective outrage and resolve.
Kenyans now await the next chapter: Will this wave of solidarity translate into concrete justice for Albert—and reform within the police service?
