The family of slain blogger Albert Ojwang is demanding justice, not only for his mysterious death in police custody but also for the sudden disappearance of more than KSh 500,000 meant for his funeral and family support. The money had been raised through comedian Eric Omondi’s Sisi Kwa Sisi initiative, a popular crowdfunding campaign that attracted massive public sympathy.
How did the Ojwang family lose the funeral funds?
According to Albert’s uncle, Polycarp Odhiambo, the family was shocked to learn that funds meant for burial preparations had vanished from Albert’s father’s M-Pesa account. Speaking in a video interview with YouTuber Clinton Chirangah Shim, Odhiambo revealed that Meshack Opiyo, Albert’s father, discovered the loss while attempting to withdraw money. “A few days ago, my brother went to withdraw the money but encountered a problem; he didn’t have an ID. When he visited Safaricom for assistance, he discovered that even his own KSh 17,000 was missing. Upon checking the statement, they saw the names of those who withdrew the funds. Over KSh 500,000 was gone, along with his amount,” Odhiambo claimed.
The heartbreaking revelation added to the grief already facing the family following Albert’s sudden and tragic death.
What happened to Albert Ojwang?
Ojwang was arrested at his parents’ home in Kokoth village, Homa Bay County, on June 7 while having lunch with his family. Hours later, his widow, Nevnina, said Albert expressed fear for his life in their last conversation. By the next day, he was dead. The case has sparked national outrage, prompting questions over police brutality and accountability. On June 15, Nevnina shared heartfelt messages from Albert on Father’s Day, adding emotional weight to the family’s loss. Their three-year-old son, who was particularly close to his father, is now left to grow up without him. “He was our only child,” his grieving father stated through tears.
Public support poured in, and Eric Omondi later estimated that Sisi kwa Sisi had raised over KSh 10 million for the family.
Were other families affected by similar scams?
The Ojwang family’s ordeal echoes a similar case involving the late Boniface Kariuki. His father reported being swindled out of over KSh 200,000 by scammers posing as officials assisting with the Social Health Authority registration. The pattern has raised concerns over the security of funds raised in the name of grieving families.
During the tragedy, Albert’s father disclosed that President William Ruto personally called to offer condolences. According to the family, the president donated KSh 2 million to support them following the shocking events surrounding Albert’s death.
By Risper Akinyi
