KENYA: Passaris Appeals For Unity And Justice As Kenya Mourns Blogger Who Died In Police Custody

By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya 

Nairobi Women Representative Esther Passaris has urged Kenyans to remain calm and united following the death of blogger Albert Ojwang, who passed away while in police custody under troubling circumstances.

Ojwang was arrested on June 7 at his home in Homa Bay, allegedly over a social media post said to have defamed Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.

He was later transferred to Nairobi’s Central Police Station, where he died the following day. His death has sparked a wave of anger and concern across the country.

Initial reports from the police suggested Ojwang died after hitting his head against a wall. However, an autopsy has since revealed that he suffered severe injuries, including blunt-force trauma to the head and signs of neck compression, contradicting the official account.

Speaking in Parliament on June 10, Passaris described the blogger’s death as tragic and painful, calling on citizens not to respond with violence.

She acknowledged the frustration expressed online, including threats directed at police officers and politicians, but warned against fueling more chaos.

“This is a time for reflection, not destruction,” she said. “We all want justice, but we must not allow anger to tear this country apart.The police are meant to serve and protect, while there is undeniable rot within the system, we must remember that not every officer is guilty.”

Passaris called on the government to take decisive action by launching a thorough and impartial investigation, and ensuring accountability for those found culpable in Ojwang’s death.

“This must not be another case that fades away. The police must show they stand with Kenyans by acting justly and transparently,” she urged.

She also sent heartfelt condolences to Ojwang’s family and friends, emphasizing the need for truth and healing during this difficult period.

The incident has drawn strong reactions from across the political spectrum. Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga has demanded clarity on how and why Ojwang was moved from Homa Bay to Nairobi, warning that such cases erode public trust in state institutions.

The Digital Content Creators Association of Kenya has also condemned the incident, calling it a serious human rights violation and a threat to freedom of expression.

Several lawmakers have echoed these sentiments, urging both political and civil society leaders to ensure the matter is investigated independently and comprehensively.