Tears and resolve at Albert Ojwang’s requiem Mass

A heavy silence fell over Ridgeways Baptist Church in Nairobi on Wednesday.

Mourners gathered to honour Albert Omondi Ojwang, the 31‑year‑old teacher and blogger who died in police custody.

His requiem Mass became a solemn appeal for justice.

Former Attorney‑General and ex‑Cabinet Secretary Mr Justin Muturi spoke with evident emotion.

“When well‑educated young people speak, they breathe life into our Constitution,” he said.

He recalled his own ordeal when his son was abducted, adding, “I was able to reach the President. But how many Kenyans can? That is the problem.”

Mumias East MP Peter Salasya pledged fierce opposition to any legislation that suppresses the people’s voice.

He singled out Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris’s Public Order (Amendment) Bill to restrict gatherings near Parliament.

“As MPs, we will ensure the Bill doesn’t see the light of day,” Mr Salasya vowed, warning it could stifle democracy.

Mourners bowed their heads as hymns filled the space and soft sobs echoed through the pews.

One activist whispered, “We are here not only to mourn, but to demand justice.”

Albert was arrested on June 7, 2025, and held at Central Police Station, Nairobi.

He later died under mysterious circumstances.

A postmortem two(2) days later revealed blunt‑force trauma inconsistent with police claims of a fall or rather a hit on the wall.

The revelation sparked nationwide protests against police brutality.

Four(4) officers and two(2) civilians have since been charged, and investigations by IPOA and the DCI are ongoing.

His widow, Ms Nevnina Omondi, recalled his final words: “I love you. See you soon.”

His father, Mr Meshack Ojwang, warned those responsible: “They may hold wealth, but they will have no peace.”

The body was later flown to Homa Bay for burial in Kakwonyo Village. Interment is expected to take place on Friday, July 4, 2025.

As the congregation filed out, a chant rose once more: “No justice, no peace.”

In that moment, the crowd’s grief fused with determination.

Their message was clear, that justice for Albert Ojwang must be more than a prayer--it must be a promise.