NAIROBI, Kenya – The United States Embassy in Nairobi has called for a swift, transparent, and thorough investigation into the death of Kenyan influencer Albert Ojwang, who died under controversial circumstances while in police custody.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Embassy extended its condolences to Ojwang’s family and expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding his death, which has sparked national outrage and renewed scrutiny of police accountability in Kenya.
“Noting concerns around the circumstances of Ojwang’s death, the Embassy supports calls from government, parliamentarians, and Kenyan citizens for accountability through a transparent investigation,” the statement read.
The Embassy of the United States of America extends our condolences to the family and loved ones of Albert Ojwang during this time of mourning. Noting concerns around the circumstances of Ojwang’s death, the Embassy supports calls from government, parliamentarians, and Kenyan
The Embassy urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to expedite its ongoing investigation and called on the Kenyan government to ensure that the watchdog agency has full access and support to carry out its mandate.
Ojwang, a 23-year-old digital content creator, was arrested in Homa Bay on Saturday afternoon by security officers who reportedly questioned him over a social media post on X (formerly Twitter).
He was transferred to Nairobi and detained at Central Police Station.
By Sunday morning, his family was informed that he had died.
Police initially claimed Ojwang died from self-inflicted injuries after allegedly hitting his head against a wall inside his cell.
However, an autopsy conducted by government pathologist Dr Bernard Midia revealed evidence of assault and multiple body injuries inconsistent with suicide.
“When we examined the pattern of injury, especially the trauma found on the head, it did not match with claims of self-harm. The injuries point to assault,” Dr Midia said during a press briefing on Tuesday.
The case has triggered widespread condemnation, with human rights groups, lawmakers, and members of the public demanding justice.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has come under pressure over the incident but has so far resisted calls to resign.
Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome has since apologised for what he admitted was a premature and incorrect claim that Ojwang had committed suicide.
IPOA has confirmed that it has launched a formal investigation.
Ojwang’s death adds to a growing list of allegations of police brutality and abuse of power, reigniting debate about systemic issues in Kenya’s law enforcement system.
