The Office of Directorate of Public Prosecutions has given the Independent Policing Oversight Authority IPOA seven days to table findings into the death of social media influencer Albert Omondi Ojwang.
Renson Igonga, the Director of Public Prosecutions gave the directive on Tuesday evening as pressure and rage mounted over the death of the social media influencer.
”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,” a statement from the ODPP read in part.
The development came following IPOA Chairperson, Ahmed Isaack, confirming that the authority had commenced investigations into the matter.
On Tuesday Government pathologist Bernard Midia revealed that Ojwang’s wounds were consistent with an assault by a third party. This discounted earlier claims by the police that the injuries were self-inflicted.
According to Midia, Ojwang’s body had external injuries besides his head, which effectively ruled out the police’s initial version of events that his wounds could be self-inflicted.
“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,” Midia told the media.
A section of activists have been calling for the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat whose defamation complaint led to the arrest of Albert Ojwang’.
Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula on Tuesday directed the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security to present a preliminary report on Ojwang’s death to the House on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 2:30 pm.
The Speaker noted that the statement should provide an update on the progress of investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death of Albert Omondi Ojwang, a resident of Homa Bay County.
The Speaker issued the directive following demands from lawmakers, led by Nyando MP Jared Okello, who termed the matter urgent and grave. Members of Parliament demanded a swift and transparent investigation into the incident.
“By all means, a very serious matter. 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 remarked during a House session.
Comparing the case to the story of South African activist Steve Biko, Wetang’ula acknowledged the anxiety the incident had caused among Kenyans. “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.
Despite Thursday being Budget Day, the Speaker allocated a half-hour slot before the session to allow the committee to table the report and inform the House and the nation on the status of the investigation.
He assured MPs that they would have the opportunity to contribute after the statement is issued. “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,” said Wetangula.
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