'Saba Saba for Albert Ojwang' Friends & family vow to pursue justice during burial

Speaking during Ojwang's burial in Homa Bay on Friday, Ojwang’s father hinted at fear for their safety after the spotlight fades from their family.

A large crowd showed up at Kawango Primary School to pay their last respects to slain teacher Albert Ojwang, whose death brought the spotlight yet again on the blatant abuse of rights by security agencies. The burial service was dominated by a call from the family to support them in the quest for justice.

“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,” said Meshack Ojwang, Albert’s father.

“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 that we know were involved. IPOA, please take charge, publish a full report and charge everyone,” said Julius Juma, the family lawyer.

“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,” said Abna Ngumi, Ojwang’s friend.

Political leaders who attended the service also rejected claims that their roles in government had blinded them to state excesses, especially the recent wave of abductions and killings.

“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,” said Millie Odhiambo, MP for Suba North.

“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 own selfish interests,” said Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga.