The memorial service for Albert Ojwang was a deeply emotional affair, marked by sorrow and calls for justice, drawing friends, human rights activists, and members of the public.
But amid the grief, one image stood out: the arrival of a sleek limousine carrying the body of the late Ojwang.
The sight of the custom-built hearse that costs an upward of Sh4 million made a bold statement.
The vehicle, a Mercedes-Benz GLE converted into a hearse, featured a polished obsidian black finish, exuding both elegance and solemnity.
Built on the chassis of the luxurious GLE SUV, it is fitted with long gull-wing doors that open to reveal the exquisite cabin meant to house the casket.
According to automotive experts at Stratstone, the Mercedes-Benz GLE, formerly known as the M-Class, is considered a powerful, high-end family SUV.
It is available in a range of powerful engines, including six- and eight-cylinder petrol options and efficient six-cylinder diesels.
These engines are paired with a smooth-shifting automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive, enhancing stability across different road conditions.
For ride quality, the GLE can be spec'd with air suspension that enhances comfort and allows the vehicle's height to be adjusted.
Its interior is designed for luxury, featuring real wood and metal trims, premium materials, heated, electronically adjustable seats, and dual-zone climate control.
Buyers can also opt for extras such as a panoramic glass roof, a high-end sound system, a rearview camera, and advanced driver-assistance features like lane-keeping assist and blind spot monitoring.
Yet, the grandeur of the send-off stood in stark contrast to the way Ojwang died.
For a man who was killed like a dog, his is clearly the burial of a king.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga handed over a newly built, fully furnished house to Albert's father, Meshack Ojwang, in Kokwanyo Village.
The home replaces a dilapidated structure that Albert had long hoped to renovate for his family.
President William Ruto also donated Sh2 million, opposition leader Raila Odinga contributed Sh1 million, and Kenyans rallied to raise another Sh2 million through a paybill fund.
"The family received a total of Sh5,060,000 and they appreciate each and every individual for standing with them, but I repeat it's not true as it has been shared severally in various media channels that the family received Sh5 million from one individual," said the family's lawyer, Julius Juma.
