Albert Ojwang funeral: Family vows to fight for justice in court
Mourners view the body of Albert Ojwang at Nyawango Primary School in Kabondo Kasipul, Homa Bay County on July 4, 2025.
The family of Albert Ojwang, with the help of several lawyers, will pursue justice for their son who was murdered in police custody.
Ojwang was arrested at his home in Homa Bay County on June 7and later transferred to Nairobi and was in police custody and Central Police Station. Hours later, he was dead. Ojwang was buried on July 4.
Family lawyer Julius Juma said the legal services will be supported by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). “We had a team of four lawyers sent last week. Others will come on different court dates beginning next week,” he said.
Mr Juma, who has represented the family since their son was arrested last month, did not mention who will assist him in the legal fight. But he appealed to the Independent Police Oversight Authority (Ipoa) to expedite their investigations so the case can begin. He said the agency has indicated that it has not completed investigations.
“I will not be alone but will be supported by LSK to ensure the people responsible for the death face the full force of the law. We will not sacrifice anyone in this case. We will ensure everyone, no matter how mighty they are, faces the full force of the law,” Mr Juma said.
Albert was laid to rest at his parents’ compound in Kakoth Village in Kabondo Kasipul on Friday. Many youths, teachers and university students were at the funeral.
Meshack Opiyo (centre), Albert Ojwang’s father, eulogises his son during his funeral service at Nyawango Primary School in Kabondo Kasipul in Homa Bay County on July 4, 2025. He is accompanied by his wife Eucabeth Adhiambo (second right) and other family members.
Mr Meshack Opiyo said his son had great potential and that is why he ensured he was educated. "I had a vision that he would change the face of my family. It is unfortunate that he died before realising this dream," he said.
Politicians were also present. Led by Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) National Chairperson Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay governor), National Assembly Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, his Kabondo Kasipul counterpart Eve Obara, and Homa Bay Woman Representative Joyce Osogo, the leaders spoke in one voice, calling for justice for Ojwang’s family.
Ms Wanga said that party leader Raila Odinga was expected to attend the funeral. However, due to other commitments, the former prime minister was unable to travel to Homa Bay. “I bring a condolence message from our party leader and that of President William Ruto,” she said, amidst jeering at the mention of the President’s name.
The governor said they will follow up on the case in court to ensure it is expedited and concluded. "We will ensure those arrested are charged with murder. They must be convicted and hanged," Ms Wanga said.
ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga and National Assembly Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo at Albert Ojwang's funeral at Nyawango Primary School in Kabondo Kasipul, Homa Bay County on July 4, 2025.
She said ODM has always stood on the side of the people and fought for justice for Kenyans.
Ms Odhiambo condemned the death of Ojwang and called on Kenyans to unite in calling for justice. "Let this death unite us to ensure no one else faces a similar death," she said.
Dr Osogo urged Kenyans to keep pushing for an end to abductions and extrajudicial killings. She urged police to be professional, exercise restraint and ensure peace.
"Some police are acting in a manner suggesting that they need counselling to carry out their duties professionally. We empathise with the family of Ojwang over the death of their son," Dr Osogo said.
She called on political leaders to stand firm and ensure the family of the deceased gets justice. "We must work hard and ensure we deliver what we were elected to do."
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino described Ojwang’s death as unfortunate, saying his family struggled to raise and educate him. "Meshack Opiyo (Ojwang's father) did rock blushing to educate his son."
Mr Owino called on police to protect life and property. "Instead of protecting lives, they take them away. The officers responsible should be jailed for life," the legislator said.
ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga (right) joins Albert Ojwang's father Meshack Opiyo Ojwang (third left) and other relatives during the funeral service at Nyawango Primary School in Kabondo Kasipul, Homa Bay County on July 4, 2025.
He said Deputy Inspector-General of Police Eliud Lagat, who made the initial complaint that got Mr Ojwang arrested, should be questioned over the death.
Dr Obara also urged the National Police Service to ensure its officers follow the law and always arrest people after identifying themselves, and not while concealing their identities. She said the law provides a clear guideline on how arrests should be conducted.
"They must identify themselves before making any arrest. Police should not wear masks when on duty," she said.
During Ojwang’s funeral service at Nyawango Primary School, his coffin was draped with two flags: the national flag and the Manchester United flag – his favourite football club.