Senator Demands Police Chiefs' Firing After Influencer Dies in Custody

Kenyan Senator Demands Justice for Influencer's Death in Police Custody NAIROBI, Kenya — Outrage erupted in the Kenyan Senate today over the death of popular social media influencer Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody. Senator Eloquent Crystal Asige delivered a scathing speech, demanding the immediate dismissal of the Inspector General and his deputy. "The IG and the DIGs should be fired with immediate effect; DCI should not be seen anywhere near this case!" she declared. Asige raised serious questions about the legality of Ojwang's arrest and subsequent transfer to Nairobi from Homa Bay, a distance of over 350 kilometers. She highlighted the lack of a warrant and a clear explanation of charges, potentially violating Article 49 of the Kenyan constitution. She also criticized the involvement of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in the investigation, stating that only the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has the jurisdiction in such cases. The senator's speech highlighted a judgment by Justice Mugambi on May 9th, 2025, which clarified IPOA's mandate. She stressed the need for stronger oversight powers for IPOA, including the ability to make arrests, a point currently stalled in the National Assembly. "Dead people don't tell tales," Asige said, "but the collective voice of Kenyans demands that this tale be told and justice be served immediately." The incident has sparked widespread calls for police reform and accountability in Kenya.