The postmortem for Albert Ojwang’, a popular blogger and X influencer who died under controversial circumstances while in police custody, is scheduled to be conducted today, Tuesday, June 10, 2025. The procedure, which aims to establish the exact cause of death, will be led by Government Pathologist Dr. Njeru after his colleague Dr. Johansen Oduor recused himself, citing a conflict of interest due to a blood relation with the deceased.
The highly anticipated postmortem was initially slated for Monday, June 9, but was postponed following Dr. Oduor’s withdrawal. Dr. Njeru’s appointment to take over the examination has, however, been met with resistance from private pathologists representing the family, who are calling for a more independent process.
Ojwang’s death has sparked widespread outrage, with his family and multiple human rights organizations demanding a transparent and thorough investigation. They have dismissed claims by police that Ojwang’ committed suicide, instead pointing to physical injuries on his head, shoulders, and hands as evidence of potential torture.
Speaking on behalf of the family, their lawyer maintained that the suicide narrative was a cover-up, insisting that the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s detention and death point to foul play. “This was not suicide. The visible injuries suggest a violent encounter. We want justice for Albert,” the lawyer said.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched an official investigation into the case. IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Hassan has assured the public that the inquiry will be thorough, impartial, and guided by evidence. “We are committed to ensuring accountability in this matter,” he said.
In response to the growing pressure, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja announced that several officers who were on duty at Nairobi’s Central Police Station the night Ojwang’ was detained have been interdicted. This move, he said, is to allow for an unobstructed investigation by IPOA.
Ojwang’s death has reignited national concerns over police brutality and custodial deaths in Kenya, with activists calling for urgent reforms in law enforcement accountability. The results of today’s postmortem are expected to play a critical role in determining the next course of legal action.
