The Kenya Union of Post‑Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Kisumu branch has issued a stern ultimatum to the government, threatening to shut down schools if justice is not served for the late Albert Ojwang’, a teacher who died under mysterious circumstances while in police custody.
Speaking during a peaceful protest march in Kisumu, KUPPET officials led by branch executive secretary Zablon Awange condemned the killing and demanded accountability from senior police officials. Awange called for the immediate interrogation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, suggesting he should step aside to pave way for impartial investigations.
Albert Ojwang’, a 31-year-old teacher and social commentator, died on June 8 while being held at Nairobi Central Police Station. His arrest followed online posts that criticized DIG Lagat. A post-mortem conducted at City Mortuary revealed multiple injuries, including severe head trauma and signs of neck compression raising serious concerns over torture and foul play.
“We are prepared to withdraw our services and paralyze learning across the country if this government does not act,” said Awange. “Teachers are not safe if state agents can kill one of our own with such impunity.”
Already, six officers implicated in Ojwang’s detention have been suspended, and Police Constable James Mukhwana has been arraigned in court, with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) seeking more time to conclude investigations.
Public outrage continues to mount, with civil society groups, student leaders, and politicians joining calls for justice. Candlelight vigils and demonstrations have been held in Nairobi and Kisumu, reflecting the national grief and anger over the killing.
KUPPET has given the government a limited window to act, warning that failure to deliver justice will trigger industrial action and mass mobilization across the education sector.
By Kenyans