Safaricom has joined Kenyans in demanding justice for Albert Omondi Ojwang, while firmly denying claims that link the telecommunications giant to the arrest of the deceased.
This follows a period of escalating public concern and accusations from certain political leaders.
On Wednesday, the company's Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Peter Ndegwa, issued a robust position statement, seeking to address claims by a section of leaders that has cast a shadow over Safaricom's operational integrity.
In the statement, Safaricom extended its deepest condolences to the family and friends of the late Albert, underscoring the gravity with which it views the tragic incident.
"On the onset, Safaricom wishes to express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the late Albert," Safaricom said.
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However, Ndegwa was quick to address the core of the allegations, stating unequivocally: "That, at no point was there any contact between Safaricom and any security agency in investigating or arresting the late Albert."
This direct denial aims to dismantle the narrative that has circulated in some circles, implicating Safaricom in the events leading to Ojwang's detention.
Further reinforcing their detachment from the incident, Safaricom confirmed that their awareness of Ojwang's arrest mirrored that of the general public.
"That, we became aware of his arrest through media reports," the statement read, highlighting that the company was not privy to any prior operational details concerning the arrest.
This point directly contradicts any suggestions of collaboration or prior knowledge.
The statement particularly singled out a prominent figure, expressing dismay at their remarks.
"We are therefore concerned and disturbed by the remarks by Hon. Justin Muturi linking us to the unfortunate incident," Ndegwa conveyed, directly addressing the source of some of the public discourse.
This move indicates Safaricom's intent to confront specific accusations head-on rather than allowing general speculation to persist.
In a powerful appeal to the public, Safaricom urged citizens to remain vigilant against misinformation.
"Our ask to all Kenyans is to ignore any attempts to incite them and remain firm in demanding accountability through transparent investigations," the company stated, advocating for a focus on due process and verifiable facts.
This call to action encourages a collective push for truth rather than succumbing to divisive rhetoric.
Furthermore, the telecommunications giant implored national leaders to prioritise genuine inquiry.
"We also ask our leaders to push for a credible, transparent and timely investigation that will bring the perpetrators to justice and give the family and Kenyans the answers they are looking for," the statement continued, placing the onus on political figures to facilitate a thorough and impartial inquiry into Ojwang's death.
Ndegwa reiterated Safaricom's heartfelt sympathies, concluding: "We once again send our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the late Albert and wish to reassure all Kenyans that we have always been safe and secure in how we handle their data, and we will continue to do so now and in the future."
This final reassurance seeks to allay any anxieties among their vast customer base regarding data privacy and security, a cornerstone of public trust in a digital age.
The company's steadfast denial and call for a transparent investigation mark a critical moment in the ongoing public discourse surrounding Albert Omondi Ojwang's passing.