Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a warning to police officers across the country following the arrest of Police Constable James Mukhwana in connection with the murder of Albert Ojwang.
Speaking on Saturday, June 14, Gachagua criticized what he termed as the political misuse of police officers, and cautioned them about the dangers of executing illegal directives.
"I want to talk to our police officers across the country. You've seen what has happened; you follow orders, go out, and beat someone. The boss is protected, and you are the one sacrificed and taken to court.
"I want to tell our police officers: do not obey unlawful orders. Do not carry out illegal instructions. I was William Ruto's deputy, that man, when it comes to betrayal, it's one-touch," he stated.
Mukhwana was arrested on Thursday, June 12, in connection with the death of Ojwang, who suffered fatal assault while in police custody.
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His autopsy revealed head trauma, neck compression, and multiple soft‑tissue injuries, contradicting the initial police claim that he had died from hitting his head against a cell wall.
Mukhwana, who was serving as the cell sentry the night Ojwang was detained, was brought before Milimani Magistrate Robinson Ondieki on Friday, June 13.
Prosecutors, represented by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), sought a 21‑day detention order to allow further investigation.
They warned that releasing him prematurely could jeopardize witness statements and evidence integrity.
Mukhwana’s defense counsel argued he had voluntarily surrendered to authorities and contended there was no clear basis for prolonged detention .
Magistrate Ondieki granted IPOA’s request and ordered that Mukhwana remain in custody until June 20 when the court will revisit the detention decision.
Notably, while reacting to Mukhwana's arrest, Mumias East MP Peter Salasya urged him to remain steadfast and not allow himself to be unfairly targeted in the ongoing investigation.
“Now, my brother, I speak to you from the heart. You were on duty the night the bold and defiant spirit of Albert met his tragic end. I plead with you — do not allow yourself to be used as a sacrificial lamb for someone else's wrongdoing.
“We live in a country that claims to be governed by the rule of law. That principle must mean something,” he added. “I urge you to stand firm and speak the truth when you appear in court on Monday. Let justice be guided by honesty, not hierarchy or fear," he said.
Salasya also called upon IPOA to extend its investigation beyond junior officers and ensure accountability at all levels of the police service.
“To the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), I call on you to go further, arrest those who carried out the actual arrest of Albert. Accountability must not stop at the bottom,” he stated.
In a broader reflection on the challenges faced by junior police officers, Salasya proposed the formation of an independent union to protect their rights and interests.
“I also propose that junior officers form their own independent union. Too often, they are manipulated and silenced while their seniors escape responsibility. This must end,” he concluded.
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