Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has called for calm and patience as investigations into the tragic death of Albert Omondi Ojwang continue.
Ojwang allegedly sustained fatal head injuries while in police custody, which led to his demise.
Speaking on Monday, Wandayi expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, emphasising the need to allow the due process of investigation to unfold before drawing any conclusions.
“First and foremost, I must extend my condolences to the family and friends of the young man, Albert Ojwang,” Wandayi said.
“As we speak, we are not privy to all the details surrounding his untimely and unfortunate demise.”
Wandayi acknowledged that a preliminary statement was released by the National Police Service on the matter, confirming that official investigations are currently underway.
He urged the public to remain patient as authorities work to uncover the full circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death.
“Having said that, it is important to appreciate that the government, through the National Police Service, issued a preliminary statement yesterday (Sunday). That statement was a first step, and we understand that investigations are still ongoing,” he said.
Wandayi also commended the immediate action taken by the police, revealing that key officers who may have had knowledge of or involvement in the incident have already been suspended pending further inquiry.
“I must commend the police, because they have taken a commendable first step by suspending key officers within the service who could have taken action or were aware of the happenings around the unfortunate demise of this gentleman,” Wandayi said.
Wandayi appealed for calm and understanding, particularly from Ojwang’s family and the Kenyan public at large, emphasising that emotional reactions are natural but that accurate conclusions must be based on verified facts.
“Usually, when such incidents occur, they evoke a lot of emotions naturally. Until we fully understand the circumstances surrounding his arrest and how he eventually met his death, it is difficult to comment with authority,” he said.
Ojwang reportedly sustained head injuries after allegedly being assaulted in custody, with police claims suggesting he hit his head against a wall.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
