The family of the late blogger Albert Ojwang has finally addressed public speculation surrounding the donations they received after his untimely death.
At the center of the storm were swirling claims that a mysterious donor or government official had given the family a lump sum of Ksh10 million. But during Ojwang’s emotional requiem mass, the family lawyer came forward to set the record straight—the family never received such an amount from any one person.
What they did receive, however, were millions from various well-wishers, including top politicians and ordinary Kenyans.
Facts and Figures on Ojwang’s Family Donations Revealed
Speaking at Ridgeways Baptist Church on July 2, family lawyer Julius Juma firmly debunked viral claims that the late Ojwang’s father was handed Ksh10 million from a single source. “It has been said or shared on various media channels that Mzee received Ksh10 million,” Juma told mourners. “I have been asked to set the record straight, and I am doing so on the pulpit.”
According to the lawyer, the actual total donations received by the family amounted to Ksh5,060,000. These funds were contributed by a mix of high-profile leaders and Kenyan citizens touched by the tragedy. President William Ruto donated Ksh2 million, ODM leader Raila Odinga gave Ksh1 million, while ordinary Kenyans — giving between Ksh1 and Ksh100 — contributed another Ksh2 million.
The family emphasized transparency, noting that no single contributor gave more than Ksh2 million. This clarification was necessary after rumors exploded online, sparked in part by estimates made by comedian-turned-activist Eric Omondi, who had speculated that public sympathy could easily generate more than Ksh10 million.
The family spokesman responded to the confusion on June 24, explaining that Omondi’s statement was misinterpreted. He had merely given a projection, not an actual figure. “It was a hopeful prediction based on momentum,” the spokesman said.
Ojwang’s Death and the Public Outcry That Followed
Ojwang’s death on June 8 under suspicious circumstances sent shockwaves across the country. The young blogger had been an outspoken critic of police brutality and government excesses. His sudden passing triggered nationwide outrage and protests that saw thousands take to the streets demanding justice.
The pressure mounted further when it emerged that President Ruto personally called Ojwang’s father, igniting a fresh wave of speculation. Many believed the call came with a massive financial gift, further fueling the Ksh10 million rumor.
But the family maintains that while they were humbled by the president’s outreach, the actual donation from State House was Ksh2 million — not more. Lawyer Juma reiterated that this was part of a transparent donation process that included other public figures and ordinary citizens.
“We are grateful for every coin that was sent our way. The family has been overwhelmed by the love and support shown by Kenyans. But we must also correct the falsehoods so that no one is misled,” Juma said.
Ojwang will be laid to rest on July 4 in his home village of Kakwonyo, Homa Bay County. His funeral is expected to draw thousands of mourners, many of whom have followed his story closely since his death.
Justice in Motion but the Fight Continues
Beyond the donations, the family’s main focus remains justice. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has approved murder charges against Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam, Police Constables James Mukhwana and Peter Kimani, along with three others.
Attempts by the suspects to delay the trial were blocked by High Court Judge Lawrence Mugambi, who allowed the DPP and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to transfer the case to the High Court in Kibera. This is where another active murder trial against Talaam and Mukhwana is already underway.
For many Kenyans, Ojwang’s case symbolizes both the dangers of speaking truth to power and the need for bold reform within the security system. His family hopes the trial will not only deliver justice for their son but also lead to greater accountability within the police force.
In the face of misinformation, political noise, and overwhelming grief, Ojwang’s family has remained focused. They continue to correct the record where needed and push for justice where others have stayed silent.
The public now awaits the next steps in the trial—and hopes that the flood of donations, no matter the amount, does not drown out the bigger issue: Why was a young man who simply asked questions silenced so violently?
