Don’t mock us as we mourn our son, says Ojwang family

The family of slain teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang has urged Kenyans to stop attacking them on social media.

Criticism started after his father, Meshack Ojwang, announced he received phone calls from President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.

He thanked the two, saying Ruto gave him Sh2 million, while Raila gave him Sh1 million.

But the remarks did not go down well with some Kenyans, who faulted him for accepting the funds.

Herman Opiyo, Albert’s uncle, said the attacks are uncalled for, and it should not bring controversy.

He said the money was given to them in good faith.

“President Ruto and Raila condoled with the family and money was sent because they felt the pain of losing our child in such circumstances. We don’t know why the criticism and we can’t stop anyone from accessing our home and helping us mourn,” Opiyo said.

Speaking to journalists at their home in Kakelo village, Kabondo Kasipul constituency, Opiyo said those castigating them for accepting the money are wrong.

The money was handed over to the family when Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Kabondo Kasipul MP Eve Obara mourned with the family.

He said the critics are going against the Luo culture and tradition.

“Even those who have swindled Albert’s father out of money he received on M-Pesa are not doing any good to the family. It’s wrong to take advantage of the family, which is in pain,” he said.

Kenyans have been sending money to the family through the Sisi Kwa Sisi support initiative. The initiative is associated with comedian Erick Omondi.

According to Opiyo, some conmen have swindled Albert’s father out of more than Sh17,000 from his M-Pesa account. The money was sent to him by Kenyans.

“We have sought assistance from Safaricom and we hope the data will reveal the identities of those people. I think we should just be good people," he said.

The family describes the criticism and theft of the money as an act of mockery.

Opiyo said it is unfortunate that some Kenyans chose to help the family and then changed their minds over unknown reasons.

“I describe it as mockery for someone to send you money and then reverse it. It is a painful experience,” he said.

Albert will be laid to rest on July 4 at his parents’ home in Kakoth village, Kokwanyo location. The funeral service will be led by Baptist Church.

He used to attend Riwo Baptist Church in the location.