A wave of grief, outrage, and resolve swept through Kawango Primary School grounds in Homa Bay, where crowds gathered to bid farewell to Albert Ojwang. The young teacher, whose tragic death has ignited national attention, was laid to rest as friends, family, and supporters demanded accountability for what they believe was an unjust killing linked to state security forces.
Ojwang’s funeral wasn’t just a farewell; it was a rallying point. His father, Meshack Ojwang, addressed mourners with heavy emotion, speaking openly about his fears once public attention fades. “Our lives are in God’s hands. I don’t know what will happen to us after this. But I have surrendered my son to rest in peace,” he said.
Who Was Responsible for Albert Ojwang’s Death?
The family’s legal team, led by Julius Juma, minced no words during the burial service. He made it clear that the quest for justice would continue in court and called out the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to act decisively.
“We shall ensure through the court process that those who had a hand in this shall face the full force of the law. There are people who we know were involved. IPOA, please take charge, publish a full report, and charge everyone,” said Juma.
Albert’s close friend, Abna Ngumi, emphasized that the fight for justice would not fade with the burial. “We are not going to rest until justice is done. And remember, we are soon celebrating Saba Saba. We will do Saba Saba for Albert Ojwang,” Ngumi declared, signaling that the annual July 7 movement will take on a new face this year.
What Did Political Leaders Say at the Burial?
Political leaders at the service dismissed accusations that they had ignored recent state excesses due to their roles in government. Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo reaffirmed her commitment to justice, saying, “We are a just people. We stand for justice, whether we are in government or not. Do not purport to question us, we have fought for this country since independence.”
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga took a strong stance against those attempting to exploit the Gen Z protest movement. “You fellows walking around the country without any agenda, trying to divide the country along tribal lines, hanging on the cause of Gen Zs, these Gen Zs have walked faithfully. They will not allow you to hijack that for your selfish interests,” she said.
What Happens After the Burial?
Albert Ojwang was finally laid to rest at his father’s compound in Kokwanyo village, Homa Bay County. But as the dust settles on the grave, a deeper national conversation is only just beginning.
The calls for justice at his burial have amplified public scrutiny on extrajudicial actions by security agencies. With Saba Saba just around the corner, Ojwang’s name now joins a growing list of young Kenyans whose deaths have galvanized a generation determined to speak truth to power.
By Lucky Anyanje
