Nairobi — The United States and the United Kingdom have added their voices to a growing outcry over the death of Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody in Kenya under unexplained circumstances.
In carefully worded statements, both embassies urged Kenyan authorities to move quickly and transparently in investigating what happened.
“The Embassy of the United States of America extends our condolences to the family and loved ones of Albert Ojwang during this time of mourning,” the U.S. Embassy said on Wednesday, noting “concerns around the circumstances of Ojwang’s death.”
The embassy backed growing calls for accountability from the Kenyan public, saying it supported efforts by lawmakers and civil society to get to the truth. “We urge the Independent Policing Oversight Authority to conduct its ongoing investigation swiftly and thoroughly,” the statement continued, urging the government to ensure the watchdog has all necessary support.
Britain struck a similar tone.
“We echo calls for a swift, independent, and thorough investigation into his death in custody,” the British High Commission in Nairobi posted on X, formerly Twitter. “The rule of law, accountability, and free speech are vital pillars of any democracy.”
Ojwang, whose death occurred last week in western Kenya, had been detained by local police before reports emerged that he had died in their care. Details remain sketchy, and officials have yet to give a full account of the events that led to his death.
The reaction has been swift. Rights groups, church leaders, and members of Parliament have taken to social media and public forums to demand answers. On the streets of Kisumu, where Ojwang was last held, protesters have lit candles and carried placards reading “Justice for Albert.”
Several police officers believed to have been on duty during the incident have been suspended. IPOA, the civilian body mandated to investigate police conduct, has already begun formal inquiries.
The authority has faced criticism in the past for slow action or muted outcomes. However, in this case, pressure is mounting both from within Kenya and now from powerful allies abroad.
“We want to know what really happened. Was he mistreated? Was there negligence?” said Reverend David Okoth, a clergy leader in Siaya County. “The family deserves the truth. The nation deserves the truth.”
Ojwang’s relatives have remained largely quiet, asking for privacy as they await answers. A family friend, speaking on condition of anonymity, said they were “devastated” and “confused” by the lack of official communication.
The Kenyan government has yet to issue a comprehensive statement but confirmed that investigations are under way. Interior Ministry officials declined to comment when approached by reporters.
As the case unfolds, many are watching not just for facts, but for whether justice will follow a test of Kenya’s commitment to police reform and public accountability.
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