President Ruto Calls Albert Ojwang’s Father, Pledges Sh2 Million Support

HOMA BAY, June 16, 2025 – President William Ruto has reached out personally to Meshack Ojwang’, father of the late Albert Ojwang’, offering condolences and donating Sh2 million to support the grieving family following the controversial death of their son in police custody.

The presidential gesture came as national attention remains focused on the circumstances surrounding Albert’s death, which occurred after he was arrested from his rural Homa Bay home on June 7 and later died while in police detention in Nairobi.

The donation was announced by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga during a condolence visit to the family’s rural home on Sunday.

“The President called and condoled with you and your wife, and shared how deeply pained he is as a father. Today, he has sent us with Sh2 million,” Wanga told the bereaved father.

In addition to the presidential support, Governor Wanga pledged her own contribution, promising to donate a three-bedroom house to ensure the family has “a decent home” during this difficult period. “Mourners will come, sit in a tent, eat and leave—but you deserve a better place to live,” she said.

The tragedy has drawn widespread political attention, with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga also calling Meshack Ojwang’ from abroad to offer his condolences.

Albert was described as the only child of the elderly couple, making the loss particularly devastating for the family.

Governor Wanga used the occasion to demand swift justice, calling for the prosecution of all those involved in Albert’s death.

“There should be no sacred cows in this case. We want those responsible for Albert’s murder brought to justice. This tragedy has left a deep sadness in this home,” she emphasized.

The death has raised serious questions about police conduct and the treatment of suspects in custody. Albert’s case has become emblematic of broader concerns about extrajudicial killings and police accountability in Kenya.

Expressing gratitude for the support received, Meshack Ojwang’ thanked both the President and Raila Odinga.

“I thank the President for taking up my son’s case as his own and standing with our family,” he said. “He called me and offered his condolences. Even Raila Odinga called from abroad to console me.”

The case continues to attract national scrutiny as investigations proceed.

Suspects connected to the death have reportedly agreed to remain in detention, with their lawyer citing safety concerns for the decision.

The presidential intervention highlights the political sensitivity surrounding the case, as pressure mounts for accountability and justice for Albert Ojwang’ and other victims of alleged police brutality.

The family is expected to announce funeral arrangements in the coming days as investigations into the circumstances of Albert’s death continue.