President William Ruto has expressed heavy shock and upset following the death of Albert Ojwang’ while in police custody, extending his heartfelt condolences to the family.
In a statement released today June 11, the President condemned the actions that led to the tragic incident, emphasizing on the main responsibility of police officers towards those in their care.
“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,” Ruto stated.”I take this moment to extend my heartfelt condolences to Meshack Ojwang’ and his family for the cruel loss of their beloved son.”
“This tragic occurrence, at the hands of the police, is heartbreaking and unacceptable. I strongly condemn the actions and omissions, including any negligence or outright criminality that may have contributed to his untimely death.” The President said.
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President Ruto further reminded the National Police Service of its fundamental duties, saying that 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.
“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.” Dr Ruto said.
Looking ahead, President Ruto stressed the importance of police professionalism and accountability.
“It has been my conviction that affirming the institutional autonomy of the police service is key to raising its standards of professionalism, effectiveness, accountability, and credibility. The Service must therefore rise to the challenge of firmly dealing with crime and lawlessness, while also eradicating misconduct and unprofessional behavior within its own ranks,” the President asserted.
In a direct call for action regarding Ojwang’s case, the President urged full cooperation with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
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“I therefore call on the National Police Service to fully cooperate with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority and to take every necessary measure to facilitate a swift, transparent, and credible investigation into the death of Ojwang.” He said.
President Ruto also called for patience while assuring the public of imminent justice. “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.”
He affirmed his commitment to ensuring truth and justice prevail, “I fully expect that the truth about what happened to Ojwang’ will be established in due course, and that justice will be served.”
The President’s statement comes amidst growing public demand for accountability in cases of police brutality and deaths in custody, highlighting a critical moment for police reform and human rights in Kenya.
By Benedict Aoya
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