Pathologist Ahmed Kalebi has publicly challenged the National Police Service’s account regarding the death of Albert Ojwang, a popular social media influencer who died while in police custody at the Central Police Station in Nairobi. Kalebi’s statement raises serious doubts about the police explanation that Ojwang died from hitting his head against the wall in the police cell.
Kalebi pointed out that claims similar to the police’s account have been made repeatedly in the past but have consistently failed to withstand thorough medico-legal scrutiny. According to him, the suggestion that someone could fatally injure themselves by repeatedly banging their head while in custody is highly implausible. He emphasized that every time such explanations are presented, detailed investigations have disproved them, highlighting the need for a more rigorous and transparent inquiry in this case.
The pathologist also criticized the police for quickly releasing a public statement about the cause of death before completing a proper and conclusive investigation. Kalebi questioned why the National Police Service would jump to conclusions without waiting for thorough medico-legal findings. He implied that the premature announcement undermines the credibility of the police account and fuels suspicion about the true circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death.
Several prominent figures have echoed these concerns, calling for an independent and comprehensive investigation. Former Chief Justice David Maraga described the police’s explanation as insufficient and demanded an immediate, impartial probe. Maraga pointed out that the explanation provided by the police claiming Ojwang injured himself by hitting his head in the cell was unsatisfactory and required further examination.
Maraga further warned that the death of the influencer serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by Kenyans who express dissenting views and the potentially deadly consequences when state power is exercised without adequate oversight. His comments underscore the broader implications of the case for human rights and the rule of law in Kenya.
Albert Ojwang’s father, Meshack Ojwang, has also voiced deep doubts about the police’s narrative. The distraught parent explained that he handed his son over to the police in good health and was only informed of his death upon arriving in Nairobi. He expressed shock upon hearing the police claim that Albert had banged his head against the wall, saying the explanation made no sense to him.
Meshack detailed that Albert was initially taken to the Mawego Police Station before being transferred alone to a cell in Nairobi’s Central Police Station. He insisted that the police statements do not add up, arguing that even a mentally unstable person would stop banging their head after experiencing pain, making the police account difficult to believe.
Further intensifying suspicions, the Law Society of Kenya president, Faith Odhiambo, revealed that the family members of the deceased were barred from accessing the alleged crime scene. This restriction has raised serious concerns about transparency and the possibility of evidence being tampered with or concealed.
The controversy surrounding Albert Ojwang’s death has sparked widespread calls for a thorough and independent investigation into the circumstances leading to his demise. Critics argue that the premature police statements and the denial of access to the scene could point to an attempt to cover up the truth.
The case has not only brought attention to the specific incident but has also reignited debates on the treatment of detainees and accountability of law enforcement agencies in Kenya. Human rights advocates emphasize that ensuring justice for Albert Ojwang is crucial to restoring public trust and preventing future abuses in police custody.
As investigations continue, many await the findings of forensic experts and independent bodies to clarify the facts and hold those responsible accountable. The demand for justice remains strong among the public and stakeholders, highlighting the need for transparency and respect for human rights in all aspects of law enforcement.
