Wetang’ula orders committee to table report on Albert Ojwang’s death on Thursday

Wetang’ula’s directive followed a question raised by Kabondo Kasipul MP Eve Obara, who sought answers after an autopsy revealed that Ojwang’ had been tortured and strangled.

The Speaker said the death of Ojwang’ had shocked the nation, with many Kenyans demanding answers.

“This is, by all means, a very serious matter that is causing a lot of anxiety. The explanations coming out sound like a Steve Biko story,” Wetang’ula said.

“I want to direct the chair of the Security Committee—although Thursday is Budget Day—we will spare half an hour for you to bring a preliminary report to the House and inform the country on the progress made so far.”

The directive came after MP Jared Okello (Nyando) read the statement on behalf of Obara, asking the chairperson of the National Security Committee to provide a detailed response on the events leading to Ojwang’s death.

Obara stated that Ojwang’ was arrested at his rural home, detained briefly at a local police station, and later transported to Nairobi, where he was locked up at Central Police Station.

“This situation raises concerns regarding the legality of Ojwang’s transfer from Homa Bay to Nairobi,” she said in the statement.

Obara, who is Ojwang's MP, emphasised that the law requires suspects to be tried within the jurisdiction where the crime occurred or where the arrest was made.

“No court order appears to have been issued to authorise the transfer, as required by law,” she added.

Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris called on police to respect human rights and be held accountable.

“I ask the police, for once, to stand for justice and the people of Kenya. If we try to play around with this case, it will not end well,” Passaris said.

Marakwet East MP Bowen Kangongo condemned the events, calling them tragic.

“It is unfortunate that a young Kenyan who posted something on X had to die, while women and children in Kerio Valley are being butchered by bandits,” he said.

“I urge security organs to take this matter seriously and bring all those involved to book. Police are joyriding and going after petty offenders instead of focusing on real threats.”

Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo said any officers implicated must be removed from the service.

“To demonstrate seriousness, this case must be fast-tracked. If necessary, the government should support IPOA with officers from outside,” she said.

“We want to see seriousness in how the government handles this matter.”

Tharaka MP George Murugara, chair of the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee, questioned whether senior police officers were issuing illegal orders.

He also called for a review of police recruitment criteria and broader reforms within the service.

It is very sad to lose the life of a young man under such suspicious circumstances. This puts the National Police Service on the spot. We urge IPOA to do whatever it can to uncover the truth,” Murugara said.