LSK Demands Justice for Albert Ojwang Following Death in Police Custody

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has issued a statement condemning the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody at Nairobi’s Central Police Station on June 8.

Speaking during a press briefing, LSK President Faith Odhiambo described Mr. Ojwang’s death as a profound betrayal not only of the victim but also of the Kenyan people. Ojwang, who was reportedly in good health when arrested in Homa Bay, was transferred to Nairobi under questionable circumstances and later died in detention. His arrest was allegedly linked to social media activity that offended Deputy Inspector General Eliud Langat.

“The treatment of Mr. Ojwang is not representative of the Utumishi Kwa Wote mantra. It reflects a gross abuse of power and an unacceptable deviation from constitutional policing,” Odhiambo said.

LSK raised alarm over legal irregularities, citing violations of Section 71 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which mandates suspects be tried within their arrest jurisdiction. The Society also questioned the legality of his overnight transfer to Nairobi, done without a magistrate’s order as required by police standing orders.

Calling the transfer and detention malicious and unlawful, LSK urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to conduct an urgent and transparent investigation. The Society further demanded that DIG Langat recuse himself from any involvement in the probe to preserve its integrity.

“Kenya must reject extrajudicial killings and systemic police brutality. Albert Ojwang must not become another forgotten statistic,” Odhiambo emphasized.

The LSK vowed to push for urgent reforms in police custody procedures, particularly at the Central Police Station, which has faced repeated allegations of brutality. They also called on the public to report abuses and pledged to advocate for justice and accountability.