Justice for Albert Ojwang: DPP Gives IPOA 7 Days to Conclude Probe as Public Outrage Grows and the Fallout Within Police Ranks

The death of Kenyan influencer Albert Ojwang has triggered a storm of public outrage, political pressure, and a fast-moving investigation into alleged police brutality. In a bold directive issued on Tuesday evening, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Igonga, has given the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) just seven days to conclude investigations into Ojwang’s death and submit the file for review. 

In a statement invoking constitutional powers under Article 157(4) and Section 5(2) of the ODPP Act, the DPP emphasized the urgency of the matter, noting that the investigation must be expedited. “The resultant investigation file should be submitted to the DPP within seven (7) days for review and appropriate action,” the statement read in part. 

This directive comes amid mounting national and political pressure after the revelation that Ojwang’s injuries were not self-inflicted, as initially claimed by police. 

A key turning point came after government pathologist Bernard Midia released preliminary findings from an autopsy conducted on Tuesday. The report revealed that Ojwang sustained multiple injuries consistent with third-party assault, including head trauma and neck compression, clear signs pointing to foul play. 

“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,” said Midia, directly contradicting police claims that Ojwang’s wounds were self-inflicted. 

The public revelations have already triggered disciplinary actions. On Monday, the Inspector General (IG) interdicted the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Nairobi’s Central Police Station, along with all officers who were on duty during the night Ojwang died in custody. 

Pressure is also building on Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, following admissions by his superior, Douglas Kanja, that he had lodged the complaint that led to Ojwang’s detention. Many are now questioning the chain of command and the motivations behind Ojwang’s arrest. 

In response to growing national concern, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has ordered a preliminary report on the case to be tabled before Parliament on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 2:30 PM, despite it being Budget Day. 

“This is, by all means, a very serious matter,” Wetang’ula said during a House session, echoing the urgency expressed by Nyando MP Jared Okello and other lawmakers who demanded a swift, transparent investigation. 

Comparing Ojwang’s case to the tragic story of South African anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko, Wetang’ula acknowledged the incident’s chilling effect on public confidence. “For those of you who have read the book Steve Biko, it sounds like a Steve Biko story,” he said. 

As IPOA proceeds with its investigation under immense scrutiny, Kenyans continue to demand justice, not only for Ojwang but for all victims of alleged police brutality. The next seven days will be critical, with the nation watching closely to see whether the institutions tasked with upholding justice will deliver. 

For now, the spotlight remains firmly on IPOA, the DPP, and Parliament, as Kenya waits for truth, accountability, and above all, justice for Albert Ojwang.