At Ridgeways Baptist Church in Nairobi today, hundreds gathered to attend the emotional requiem mass of the late Albert Ojwang, a teacher and blogger whose death in police custody has shocked the nation. During the service, it was revealed that President William Ruto had personally reached out to Meshack Ojwang, Albert’s grieving father, with a surprise late-night phone call shortly after the tragic news broke. In that call, the president offered his condolences and pledged KSh 2 million to support the family with funeral arrangements.
This generous gesture was later confirmed by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and became one of several high-profile contributions that spurred widespread speculation regarding the total amount raised. During the ceremony, Julius Juma, the family’s legal representative, took the opportunity to clarify the situation. He explained that the total amount collected so far stood at KSh 5,060,000, disputing claims circulating on social media that the figure had reached KSh 10 million.
According to Juma, the contributions included the KSh 2 million from President Ruto, an additional KSh 1 million from opposition leader Raila Odinga, and KSh 2 million from well-wishers mobilized through an online campaign led by comedian Eric Omondi. Juma expressed gratitude to Kenyans, particularly the Gen Z community, for swiftly amplifying Albert’s story and mobilizing resources to support the bereaved family.
He stressed that the family was committed to transparency about the funds received and deeply appreciated the overwhelming show of solidarity. Albert Ojwang’s untimely and heartbreaking death in police custody has triggered a wave of public outrage and renewed demands for police accountability and justice.
As his family prepares for burial, the extraordinary national and community support demonstrates how deeply Albert’s story has resonated with people across Kenya. His death has not only exposed alleged abuses within the police service but also inspired a nationwide movement calling for reforms and respect for human rights.
The family remains hopeful that the momentum for justice will continue, ensuring Albert’s tragic passing will not be in vain and will serve as a rallying cry for meaningful change.
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