MDG Party calls for systematic police reforms after death of blogger

MDG Party leader David Ochieng, who is also the MP for Ugenya

The MDG Party has joined Kenyans in “unequivocally condemning the tragic and senseless” death of blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody.

Party leader David Ochieng said the untimely passing raises grave concerns about the conduct of law enforcement.

“We demand an immediate, transparent, and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death,” he stated.

He declared that MDG stands resolutely against police brutality and all forms of state-sanctioned violence, particularly those targeting our youth.

“This incident is yet another painful reminder of the urgent need for systemic reform within the National Police Service. The rights and dignity of every Kenyan as guaranteed by our Constitution must be upheld without exception,” he urged.

Ochieng, who is also the MP for Ugenya, called on the relevant authorities to leave no stone unturned in uncovering the truth.

“Those responsible for Mr. Ojwang's death must be swiftly arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Justice must not only be done it must be seen to be done,” he added.

Ojwang’ died while in police custody under circumstances that have sparked national outrage.

He was arrested in Homa Bay on Friday after allegedly posting content on social media that was critical of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat. 

He was later transported to Nairobi and held at the Central Police Station, where he died under unclear circumstances.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja confirmed that Ojwang was arrested after a complaint by DIG Lagat, who alleged that his name had been “tarnished” on social media.

Kanja also revealed that senior officers at the Central Police Station had been interdicted in connection with the incident, pending investigations.

“The reason why the late Albert Ojwang was arrested… is because there was a complaint launched by the DIG about his name being tarnished,” Kanja stated.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has since launched an investigation into the matter, promising a thorough probe to determine the cause of death and any misconduct by officers involved.