Albert Ojwang’s Family Speaks On Why They Accepted Ruto’s Sh2M and Why They’ve Delayed Burial

The family of Albert Ojwang, the blogger who died mysteriously in police custody at Nairobi’s Central Police Station, has broken their silence on two controversial decisions that have sparked public debate: accepting President William Ruto’s Sh2 million donation and delaying their son’s burial.

Speaking through family spokesperson Harman Opiyo in Nyawango, Homa Bay, the grieving family defended their acceptance of the presidential donation, arguing that it represented responsible leadership rather than political interference.

“President Ruto saw it necessary to comfort us, and as a family, we appreciate this gesture. It is his responsibility as a national leader to show concern,” Opiyo explained, addressing criticism from sections of Kenyans who accused the father of “siding with oppressors by accepting their monetary gifts.”

The family’s position reflects a nuanced understanding of the donation’s symbolic significance.

Rather than viewing it as hush money or political manipulation, they interpret President Ruto’s personal phone call to Meshack Ojwang, Albert’s father, as the actions of a “father of the nation” fulfilling his pastoral duties during a time of national tragedy.

Meshack Ojwang himself expressed gratitude for the support, stating: “I thank the President for taking up my son’s case as his own and standing with our family.”

The gesture was not limited to the current administration, as former Prime Minister Raila Odinga also called from abroad to offer condolences, suggesting a broader political consensus on the gravity of the situation.

Justice before burial

The late Albert Ojwang’

Perhaps more significant than the donation controversy is the family’s decision to delay burial arrangements indefinitely.

This strategic choice reflects their prioritization of justice over traditional funeral rites, a decision that carries profound cultural and legal implications.

“We are waiting for the investigations to be completed before we can proceed with burial arrangements,” Opiyo stated firmly.

“We are heartbroken. Our wish is for justice to be served. We have given the government space to conduct investigations and we urge them to fast-track the process so we can know the truth behind Albert’s death.”

This delay serves multiple purposes.

Legally, it ensures that all forensic evidence is preserved and that investigations can proceed without the pressure of immediate burial.

Culturally, it demonstrates the family’s commitment to uncovering the truth, even at the emotional cost of prolonged grief and uncertainty.

Security concerns

The family’s stance becomes even more complex when viewed against the backdrop of their security concerns.

Family lawyer Julius Juma has publicly sought enhanced state protection, revealing the precarious position of those pursuing justice in sensitive cases.

“We want to be assured of our security as we pursue justice for Ojwang. Everyone on the family’s side, including myself, feels exposed,” Juma stated during an NTV appearance.

This request for protection underscores the dangerous environment in which families of police custody victims must navigate their quest for justice.

Albert Ojwang, described as the only child of Mzee Ojwang, was arrested on June 7 from his rural Homa Bay home by DCI officers, allegedly over spreading misinformation.

He was transported to Nairobi and detained at Central Police Station, where he was found dead the following morning under unclear circumstances.