ODM MPs condemn Albert Ojwang’s death, call for swift justice
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Nyanza region, led by Seme MP James Nyikal, have condemned the murder of social media influencer Albert Omondi Ojwang.
Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, June 9, 2025, the MPs called on the president to take charge and restore order in the security apparatus of the nation, arguing that Article 33 of the Constitution guarantees the freedom of expression, which includes the freedom to seek, receive and impart information.
According to the MPs, the rise of social media as a tool of expression for especially young people has created the space for the expression of views and ideas that may not necessarily be popular with all. However, no one has the right to kill anyone, but they can sue for libel or slander.
“It is time for the president to deploy the big broom and sweep away characters in the regime who abrogate to themselves the power to determine the level of freedom enjoyed by citizens and who play judge, jury and executioners in perpetuating the growth of rogue culture in the country,” the MPs said.
Investigations
Millie Odhiambo, who was also present during the briefing, called on the investigating agencies to move with swiftness and unearth what indeed killed Ojwang.
According to the Suba North MP, the level of intolerance has spiralled in the country, and no one should take someone’s life just because they differ or attack them on social media platforms.
“We first want to know who gave the order for the young man to be arrested. We are also calling for swiftness in the investigation into this, just like we saw in Hon. Were’s case. Killing people is non-negotiable; if you differ, there is a block button. So, we are calling on the government to crack the whip on these people who are violating human rights,” she said.
On his part, Nyikal stated that no one has the right to arrest, murder, or kill a person merely because he or she disagrees with their views.
“The death of Albert Omondi Ojwang, who was arrested in Homa Bay County on Saturday, June 7, 2025, and turned up dead the next morning at Central Police Station in Nairobi, is a stark reminder that the question of police brutality is one whose answers we are yet to find,” Nyikal said.
“The death of Albert Ojwang must not join the statistics as one more young person killed in vain. A red line must be drawn this time, upon which the investigation and prosecutions of those found culpable must be firm and swift.”
