Embu: The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Embu Branch on Friday evening held a candlelight vigil for the slain teacher, Albert Ojwang. The teachers termed his death unfortunate and called for thorough and speedy investigations into his death and apprehension and prosecution of all those involved.
According to Kenya News Agency, led by Branch Secretary Jacob Karura, the teachers demanded the immediate stepping aside of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat to allow for an impartial probe into the death of their colleague, which they termed as an extrajudicial killing in the hands of rogue police officers. 'If that does not happen, we shall call on all our members to go on strike until justice is done to our slain colleague,' he said.
The teachers' union called on relevant authorities, including the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), to expedite investigations and ensure justice is served. 'We are here not just to light candles but ignite a flame of truth that will not be extinguished until justice is served to Albert Ojwang,' he stated. He continued, 'we cannot and we will not remain silent in the face of such horrendous acts.'
They paid tribute to Ojwang, who they said was committed and passionate about teaching with a promising future. 'Albert embodied the hope and promise of our nation's youth and the void he leaves behind in the teaching fraternity is immeasurable,' said Karura.
Ojwang's death has sparked outrage within the education sector, with KUPPET national officials also expected to weigh in on the matter. The union vowed to stand with the family and push for reforms to protect teachers and other citizens from abuse by law enforcement.