A wave of public fury erupted in Homa Bay County, Kenya, as mourners set fire to the Mawego Police Station in protest over the death of 31-year-old teacher and political blogger Albert Omondi Ojwang. The incident took place on July 3, 2025, during his funeral procession in Kakoth village, escalating into a symbolic act of resistance against what many see as a pattern of police brutality and impunity.
The mourners, who had gathered for Ojwang’s burial, forcefully removed his coffin from the hearse and marched to the nearby Mawego Police Station, where he was initially held after his arrest. Police officers reportedly fled the premises before the group arrived. The angry crowd proceeded to burn parts of the station, including the offices of the Officer Commanding Station and reception areas. While no casualties were reported, nearby properties were vandalized, and some were looted.
Albert Ojwang was arrested on June 7 for allegedly posting critical remarks about Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat on social media. He was first detained at Mawego Police Station and then transferred to Nairobi Central Police Station, hundreds of kilometers away. The next day, police reported he had died by suicide in custody, claiming he hit his head against a wall.
However, a post-mortem report revealed a different story. Ojwang had suffered blunt-force trauma to the head, compression of the neck, and extensive soft tissue injuries, raising suspicions of torture or assault. These findings led to a national outcry, especially among youth and civil rights groups.
In response to the growing unrest, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) launched an investigation. Several police officers, including the duty officer, cell sentry, and the OCS, were interdicted. Constable James Mukhwana, who was on duty during Ojwang's final hours, was arrested and charged with murder. He reportedly claimed he had received orders from superiors to mistreat the detainee. A total of six individuals, including three officers, have now been charged in connection with the case.
Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, whose complaint allegedly initiated Ojwang's arrest, temporarily stepped aside but was later allowed to resume duties following a High Court ruling. The legal proceedings related to Ojwang’s death are ongoing, with hearings scheduled for July 10 and August 8.
The burning of the Mawego Police Station has become a focal point for wider protests across Kenya. Demonstrations against economic hardship, corruption, and police violence have intensified since June, with at least 16 people killed nationwide during clashes with law enforcement. Human rights groups and civil society organizations, including Amnesty Kenya and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, have demanded comprehensive reforms and accountability.
President William Ruto condemned the incident as tragic and unacceptable, urging for a transparent and credible investigation. The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi and Kenya’s Council of Governors have also voiced support for a full inquiry.
As the country approaches the symbolic Saba Saba Day on July 7–8, which commemorates Kenya’s pro-democracy struggles, more protests are expected. Citizens continue to call for justice not only for Albert Ojwang but for all victims of state violence, pressing for meaningful reform in Kenya’s law enforcement institutions.