Opposition chiefs, led by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, are set to address Kenyans in a major national briefing on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.
The leaders are expected to speak on a range of national issues, with the death of social media influencer Albert Ojwang in police custody likely to take centre stage.
Ojwang’s death has sparked national outrage, drawing reactions from political figures, civil society groups, and members of the public, with many citing concerns over alleged police excesses and the handling of dissent.
Ojwang, a digital commentator and teacher from Homa Bay County, was arrested at his home on June 7 in connection with a social media post.
He was transferred to Nairobi’s Central Police Station, approximately 400 kilometres away, and died the following day while in custody.
According to police, Ojwang was found unconscious in his cell and was pronounced dead shortly after on the morning of Sunday, June 8.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death.
National leaders have called for accountability, with some urging the resignation or suspension of senior police officials to allow for an impartial investigation.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, June 10, Kalonzo described Ojwang’s death as deeply troubling and called for the resignation of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat to enable a transparent probe.
While condemning the alleged intimidation of online commentators, Kalonzo said: “To call for investigations is completely out of place. Lagat, the Deputy Inspector General, should resign immediately.”
On June 9, Gachagua also took to social media, urging the suspension of DIG Lagat, saying the police leadership should bear responsibility for the events that led to Ojwang’s arrest and subsequent death.
As the opposition prepares for Wednesday’s press briefing, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen is also expected to appear before the Senate to respond to questions regarding the incident.
The CS is facing mounting pressure to provide a full account of the police operation that resulted in Ojwang’s arrest in Homa Bay County and his transfer to Nairobi.
