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Wafric News - June 13, 2025

Nairobi Bureau - President William Ruto has pledged firm action against rogue police officers, promising that his government will protect citizens from state violence — following growing anger over the death of social media influencer Albert Ojwang while in police custody.

Speaking on Friday at an event in Ngong where over 7,000 illegal firearms were destroyed, the president sent a strong warning to law enforcement officers who abuse their power.

“We will protect the public from rogue police officers and ensure those who break the law are held accountable,” Ruto said. “This country must be governed by the rule of law.”

His remarks come in the wake of nationwide protests and public outrage, as Kenyans demand justice for Ojwang, who died under suspicious circumstances after being arrested in Homa Bay. Autopsy results suggest he was violently assaulted — contradicting early police claims that he injured himself.

The case has re-ignited demands for deep reforms within Kenya’s police force, long accused of brutality, torture, and extrajudicial killings. Rights groups say the system continues to fail victims of abuse, even under a government that has promised change.

A Dual Message: Security and Accountability

While the president’s address focused on law and order, it also touched on broader national security efforts. The firearms destruction ceremony symbolized Kenya’s ongoing push to combat the spread of illegal weapons, which fuel conflict and insecurity across the country.

“This is a clear signal of our seriousness in fighting lawlessness,” Ruto said. “I urge all relevant agencies to take steps toward aligning our national policies with international arms control treaties that serve our security interests.”

According to authorities, the weapons destroyed were collected through a combination of police operations and voluntary surrender campaigns — part of a national disarmament strategy.

Public Skepticism Remains

Despite the president's strong statements, many Kenyans remain unconvinced. Critics point to a pattern of official apologies without real accountability.

“This isn’t the first time we’ve heard such promises,” said activist Janet Mwangangi, who joined protests in Nairobi. “What we need is action — arrests, convictions, and a complete clean-up of the police service.”

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has opened an investigation into Ojwang’s death. One officer has been arrested so far, and others suspended.

But with cases of police abuse piling up, Kenyans are watching closely to see whether Ruto’s government will back its words with real justice.


By WafricNews Desk.

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