The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Igonga, has issued a firm directive to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to conclude investigations into the death of social media influencer Albert Ojwang within seven days. The move comes amid increasing public pressure and widespread outrage over the mysterious circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s demise while in police custody.
In a statement released on Tuesday evening, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) cited Article 157(4) of the Constitution of Kenya and Section 5(2) of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Act, Cap. 6B, as the legal basis for the urgent order.
“In light of the foregoing and according to Article 157(4) of the Constitution, and Section 5 (2) of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Act, Cap. 6B of the Laws of Kenya, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has directed the IPOA to expedite the said investigations. The resultant investigation file should be submitted to the DPP within seven (7) days for review and appropriate action,” the ODPP statement read.
IPOA Confirms Active Investigations
This directive follows the confirmation by IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Isaack that the authority had launched an investigation into the incident. The death of Ojwang, a Homa Bay native and popular online figure, has sparked protests, trending hashtags, and calls for justice across various platforms.
Government pathologist Dr. Bernard Midia conducted an autopsy on Ojwang’s body on Tuesday and revealed disturbing findings that contradicted the police’s initial narrative.
“The cause of death is very clear. A head injury, neck compression, and we also have other injuries on other parts of the body that are pointing towards assault,” Dr. Midia stated, dispelling the claims that Ojwang’s injuries were self-inflicted.
Midia further noted that the external injuries, especially to the head and neck, were consistent with an assault by a third party — casting doubt on the police report that Ojwang had harmed himself while in custody.
Top Police Officers Interdicted
In response to the preliminary findings and mounting public demand for accountability, the Inspector General of Police on Monday interdicted the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Nairobi Central Police Station, along with all officers who were on duty the night Ojwang died. The interdiction is a significant step in what appears to be a widening probe into police misconduct.
However, activists, lawmakers, and the public continue to push for the immediate arrest or interdiction of all officers who may have been directly involved in the alleged torture or murder of the influencer.
Spotlight on Deputy IG as Top Cop Admits Being Complainant
Adding a twist to the controversy, Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat is now facing scrutiny following revelations that his superior, Douglas Kanja, was the complainant in the matter that led to Ojwang’s arrest and detention.
This revelation has raised serious questions about possible abuse of power, conflicts of interest, and the potential misuse of police resources in what some are calling a targeted detention.
Parliament Weighs In: Speaker Wetang’ula Calls for Urgent Report
The national outrage has also reached Kenya’s Parliament. On Tuesday, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula directed the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security to table a preliminary report on the death of Albert Ojwang.
The report is scheduled to be presented on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 2:30 p.m., just ahead of the Budget Day proceedings.
“This is, by all means, a very serious matter,” said Wetang’ula, responding to pressure from lawmakers including Nyando MP Jared Okello. “Yesterday, yours truly here and others spoke to it in the same manner that you are speaking. This is, by all means, a very serious matter.”
Wetang’ula compared the tragedy to the notorious case of South African anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko, who died in police custody in 1977 under similarly murky circumstances.
“This matter is causing a lot of anxiety, and the explanations are coming out. For those of you who have read the book Steve Biko, it sounds like a Steve Biko story,” he said.
The Speaker set aside 30 minutes of the session to allow the committee to present its findings to the House and the public, despite Thursday being a busy Budget Day.
He also promised that Members of Parliament would be granted time to debate and contribute to the discussion following the committee’s presentation.
“I know many members have strong views on this matter. Hold your horses. Once the statement is presented on Thursday, I will give you an opportunity,” he added.
National and International Reactions
The death of Albert Ojwang has not only ignited national attention but is also attracting international interest. Human rights groups, civil society organizations, and digital rights advocates have all condemned the incident and are demanding justice and transparency.
On social media, Kenyans have used hashtags like #JusticeForOjwang and #StopPoliceBrutality to express their outrage and share personal stories of police abuse.
Political analysts argue that the case could become a defining moment in Kenya’s ongoing debate over police reform, oversight, and accountability.
What Next?
With just seven days on the clock, all eyes are now on IPOA and the DPP’s office. The nation is watching closely to see whether justice will be served swiftly and transparently — or whether the case of Albert Ojwang will join a long list of unresolved deaths in police custody.
Lawmakers, media, and citizens alike are demanding that the truth be uncovered, and those responsible — regardless of rank or title — held to account.
As Speaker Wetang’ula aptly noted, “This is not just another case. It has shaken the conscience of the country.”