Charlene Ruto Breaks Silence on Albert Ojwang’s Death: Calls for Generational Ceasefire and National Reflection

Charlene Ruto, daughter of President William Ruto, has joined a growing number of Kenyans in mourning the tragic death of Albert Omondi Ojwang, a popular teacher, activist, and social media influencer who died in police custody under troubling circumstances. 

Speaking after the Youth Leadership Forum in Nairobi, Charlene led over 100 participants in observing a moment of silence in memory of the 31-year-old, whose untimely death has triggered national outrage and renewed scrutiny on police conduct in Kenya. 

“I have struggled with deep moments of reflection for the past few days to try and find context around what happened,” Charlene posted on Twitter. “This is a painful, unfortunate and overwhelming loss, and we share our deepest condolences with his family.” 

Ojwang, who was arrested in Homa Bay before being transferred to the Central Police Station in Nairobi, died mysteriously while in custody. The incident has fueled public anger, with many calling for justice and accountability. In response, two police officers, including the Nairobi Central Police OCS Samsob Talam and Constable James Mukhwana, have been arrested as investigations continue. 

Charlene’s comments marked a rare public intervention into an ongoing human rights issue, and she used the platform to call for what she termed a “generational ceasefire” a shift in mindset among the youth and political actors to reduce growing hostility and intolerance. 

“As a young Kenyan, I would also like to challenge the entire country to embrace a generational ceasefire,” she wrote. “These regrettable incidents, extremity, and growing intolerance should challenge all of us as a nation to interrogate the environment and culture we want to live in and create for the generations coming after us.” 

Her words resonate at a time when concerns over police brutality in Kenya are escalating. Civil society groups and watchdog organizations have continuously raised alarms over extra-judicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and human rights violations by law enforcement. 

Albert Ojwang’s death is quickly becoming a painful symbol of this long-standing issue, a reminder of the urgent need for systemic reform and social healing. 

As Kenya reflects on the tragic loss of yet another young voice, Charlene Ruto’s public statement has added moral weight to the calls for justice, accountability, and a more compassionate future.