The death of Kenyan influencer Albert Ojwang inside a Nairobi police cell has ignited nationwide outrage. But Catholic bishops are urging a different response — peace over protest.
As youth and Gen Z rally online and in the streets, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) is calling for calm, prayer, and lawful pursuit of justice. Their warning comes as tensions flare, especially after police stopped a scheduled autopsy and Ojwang’s body remains at City Mortuary.
With emotions running high and questions surrounding his arrest and death, the bishops’ message couldn’t be more urgent.
Catholic Bishops Urge Justice Without Bloodshed Over Albert Ojwang Case
In a firm message delivered on Monday, June 9, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops cautioned Kenyans — especially young people — against turning grief into chaos. The bishops asked for patience and unity, reminding citizens that justice must not be pursued through violence.
Ojwang’s death, under suspicious circumstances at Central Police Station in Nairobi, has triggered anger across the country. The influencer was arrested in Homa Bay over allegations of defaming Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat. He was then transferred over 400 kilometers to Nairobi, raising eyebrows.
According to police, Ojwang hit his head on a wall inside the cell, leading to his death. But his supporters, lawyers, and human rights activists have rejected that version. They’re demanding full accountability, including from senior police officials.
Amid the fury, the bishops have backed swift and transparent investigations. They called on law enforcement to handle the matter without bias or cover-ups. Importantly, they welcomed the interdiction of the Officer Commanding Station at Central Police, calling it a necessary step toward justice.
But their message went beyond policy. The bishops stressed the need for prayer, national healing, and restraint. They warned that mass protests could spiral out of control and risk more loss of life — especially when emotions are inflamed and police responses are unpredictable.
Gen Z Protest Threats Worry Religious Leaders
Kenya’s Gen Z, often vocal online, has become a major force in pushing for justice. Influencer Hanifa Adan and others have called for mass demonstrations to demand accountability over Ojwang’s death. This wave of digital activism has spilled into physical spaces, with protests already reported at City Mortuary.
However, Catholic bishops are deeply concerned. They fear that calls for action could invite more violence, especially if protests turn confrontational. They also believe that justice can still be achieved within Kenya’s legal framework — but only if calm is maintained.
Their message was clear: mourn, but don’t burn. Speak, but don’t strike. Demand, but don’t destroy.
The bishops said that while the desire for justice is valid, the method must not lead to further suffering. Instead, they urged the youth to organize peacefully and lean into prayer, solidarity, and faith.
They also urged the government not to treat protesters with contempt or brutality, warning that heavy-handed crackdowns could worsen the crisis.
Political Pressure Mounts While Bishops Demand Transparency
Political leaders have not stayed silent. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called for the suspension of DIG Eliud Lagat, whom he accused of directly managing the Central Police Station behind the Inspector General’s back.
The Law Society of Kenya has also raised questions, calling for transparency and the full disclosure of all officers involved in Ojwang’s arrest, transfer, and detention.
While these political voices grow louder, the bishops’ warning serves as a reminder that even justified anger must be channeled responsibly. They reiterated that no one is above the law — not even top police officers — and anyone found guilty must face justice.
At the same time, the bishops reminded Kenyans that their collective strength lies not in street clashes, but in unity, prayer, and the rule of law.
