President William Ruto has strongly condemned the tragic death of Albert Ojwang, sending a deeply personal message of sorrow and solidarity to the grieving family. In a press statement issued on Tuesday, June 11, 2025, the President described the incident as both shocking and heartbreaking.
“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.”
“I take this moment to extend my heartfelt condolences to Mr. Meshack Ojwang and his family for the cruel loss of their beloved son,” the President stated.
The President lamented the fact that Albert Ojwang died while under the watch of those entrusted to protect him, calling it not only a personal tragedy for the Ojwang family but a national moral failure.
“This tragic occurrence, at the hands of the police, is heartbreaking and unacceptable.”
He continued with a firm condemnation of all potential wrongdoing or negligence that may have contributed to the young man’s untimely death:
“I strongly condemn the actions and omissions, including any negligence or outright criminality, that may have contributed to his untimely death.
“It must be borne in mind by every member of the National Police Service that whenever they take a person into custody, they assume a tremendous responsibility for that individual’s safety, security, and well-being, and must make every effort to discharge this duty conscientiously and without fail.”
President Ruto reaffirmed the foundational role the police must play as guardians of public trust:
“The National Police Service is the nation’s trusted custodian of the security of all persons and property, and they must always uphold this trust in order to secure and maintain legitimacy and credibility in the eyes of the people.”
He did not shy away from calling out the systemic rot that this case brings to light, urging the Service to confront misconduct within its ranks with integrity and resolve:
“The police service must rise to the challenge of firmly dealing with crime and lawlessness, while also eradicating misconduct and unprofessional behavior within its own ranks.”
The President directed the National Police Service to cooperate fully with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) in order to ensure a thorough and credible investigation. Justice, he emphasized, cannot be rushed but it must be done.
“As we mourn his passing, let us patiently but vigilantly follow the progress of the investigations without making premature judgments or drawing conclusions that could compromise the process and its outcome.”
In closing, President Ruto expressed cautious optimism that the truth will come to light, and that Albert Ojwang and every Kenyan will be honored by a justice system that works.
“I expect the truth about what happened to Ojwang will be established in due course, and that justice will be served.”
