Ojwang's family: Stop attacking us over Ruto donation

The family of the slain teacher and social media influencer Albert Ojwang has called on Kenyans to stop attacking them on social media.

Criticism started after Albert’s father, Meshack Ojwang, announced that he had phone calls with President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.

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President Ruto also gave him Sh2million while Raila gave him Sh1million.

The father thanked the two Kenyan top leaders for their support. But the remarks had not gone down well with some Kenyans as they expressed their opinions on social media.

They faulted Albert’s father for accepting the funds.

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

He argued that the money was given to them in good faith.

“President Ruto and Raila said they condoled with the family, and money was sent because they felt the pain of losing our child in such a circumstance. 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 in Kabondo Kasipul constituency, Opiyo said those who castigated 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 moaned with the family.

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

“Even those who have swindled money that Albert’s father received on the MPESA account 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. Omondi called on Kenyans to help the family during mourning.

According to Opiyo, some conmen have swindled more than Sh17,000 from Albert’s father's 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," Opiyo said.

The family describes the criticism and stealing the already sent money as an act of mockery.

Opiyo said it is unfortunate for some Kenyans to go to the step of helping the family before changing their minds over unknown reasons.

“I describe it as mockery if someone can send you money and at the same time 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 in Kokwanyo location.

The funeral service will be led by the Baptist Church where the deceased was worshipping. He used to attend Riwo Baptist Church which is located within the location.