KISUMU, Kenya- Religious leaders in Kisumu County are now appealing to authorities to expedite the investigations and serve justice following the killing of slain teacher Albert Omondi Ojwang.
The 31-year-old teacher from Homabay County was brutally murdered, according to autopsy reports, triggering nationwide outcry for accountability.
The clergy, led by Archbishop Dr Winnie Owiti of the VOSH Church International, expressed shock over Ojwang’s suspicious death that occurred on Sunday, June 8, while in police custody.
Dr Owiti, while speaking at a press conference, condemned ‘in the strongest terms’ the brutal murder, describing it as part of a worrying trend of insecurity and extrajudicial killings in the country.
“As the Church and the body of Christ, we condemn in the strongest terms possible the mysterious death of Albert Ojwang,” said Dr Owiti, “We stand with his family and demand that justice is not delayed.”
She blamed systemic failures for the rising insecurity, calling for a country where citizens could live without fear of abduction, violence, or state brutality.
The clergy emphasised the need for constitutional rights to be upheld, urging the government to ensure the safety of all Kenyans.
“We want a country where we are not afraid to walk freely or speak the truth,” Dr Owiti declared, “Justice must be our shield and defender. We will not accept a nation where people are killed for demanding accountability.”
The church leaders vowed to stand in solidarity with victims of police brutality and extrajudicial killings, warning that silence in the face of injustice was no longer an option.
“As spiritual leaders in Kisumu, we commit that the church will continue advocating for truth and justice,” Dr Owiti said. “May peace prevail, and may justice be applied to Ojwang’ and all who have suffered.”
Ojwang’s death has sparked national outrage over alleged police misconduct, with human rights groups, religious institutions, politicians and the general public demanding an independent investigation into the matter.
However, as investigations continue, government officials have appealed to leaders and the public to remain calm and peaceful and assured that due process will be followed in seeking justice for the victims.
