Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher, social media influencer, blogger, and activist, died under tragic circumstances while in police custody, sparking widespread outrage and calls for justice across Kenya. Ojwang was arrested in Homa Bay on June 7 after a complaint lodged by Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat regarding alleged defamation on social media. He was subsequently transported to Nairobi and booked at the Central Police Station, where he was found dead on the morning of June 8.

Initial reports from the police falsely claimed Ojwang succumbed to injuries sustained by banging his head against the cell wall. However, a subsequent autopsy revealed a far more disturbing truth: Ojwang had been subjected to torture, with his neck compressed, ultimately leading to his murder. This revelation intensified public anger, leading to extensive demonstrations. Cars were burned in Nairobi's Central Business District on June 12 as protestors clashed with police. Residents of Oyugis town in Homa Bay County also took to the streets, demanding the immediate arrest of all top officers implicated.

The death prompted significant reactions from prominent figures and organizations. Charlene Ruto, daughter of President William Ruto, broke her silence a week after the incident, joining Kenyans in mourning Ojwang. Speaking at a Youth Leadership Forum in Nairobi, she led 106 participants in observing a moment of silence for the deceased. Charlene described the loss as "painful, unfortunate, and overwhelming" and extended her deepest condolences to the bereaved family. She called for a national reflection and a "generational ceasefire," urging young Kenyans to shift away from rising extremism, political hostility, and intolerance, and instead take responsibility for building a better society.

The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), of which Ojwang was a member, organized vigils and peaceful processions across various counties, including Kisii, Kirinyaga, Kajiado, Taita Taveta, Garissa, Embu, Kericho, Nyamira, and Migori. Teachers, many dressed in official attire, carried placards demanding justice for their slain colleague and an immediate end to the surging cases of extrajudicial killings in the country. KUPPET officials urged President William Ruto to utilize all instruments of power to bring police officers to order.

In response to the public outcry, President William Ruto issued an official statement on June 11, grieving with Ojwang's family and acknowledging the immense pain for his parents. He directed the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to expedite investigations and uncover the truth, ensuring all culprits are brought to justice. IPOA, under Chairperson Issack Hassan, has since recovered crucial evidence and assured the public that justice will prevail. Several police officers have been arrested and interdicted in connection with Ojwang's death, including Nairobi Central Police OCS Samson Talam and Constable James Mukhwana, the cell sentry. The Inspector General of Police, IG Kanja, interdicted the OCS, duty officer, cell sentry, and report-office officers involved.

Albert Ojwang's death has become a poignant symbol of Kenya's ongoing struggle with police brutality and impunity. The incident continues to fuel demands for accountability, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive reforms within the police service to prevent similar tragedies and ensure that justice is served for all victims.