A Kenyan blogger, Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody, was brutally assaulted, according to a post-mortem report.
The autopsy contradicts the police’s claim that Ojwang sustained head injuries after hitting his head against a cell wall.
State pathologist Bernard Midia stated that Ojwang’s death was likely caused by assault, citing severe head injuries, neck compression, and multiple soft tissue trauma spread across his body.
These injuries, Midia noted, were externally inflicted and consistent with external assault.
Ojwang, 31, a digital creator known for microblogging on topical political and social issues, was arrested in Homa Bay over a post allegedly critical of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat. He was transferred to Central Police Station in Nairobi, where police claimed he was found unconscious with self-inflicted injuries.
However, the autopsy report revealed a different story, sparking widespread outrage in Kenya.
The Digital Content Creators Association of Kenya paid tribute to Ojwang, describing him as a voice of the youth and a symbol of resilience.
Faith Odhiambo, president of the Law Society of Kenya, condemned the police’s actions, stating that Ojwang was “tortured” and “brutally murdered” in custody.
Veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga also condemned the death, citing a long list of young Kenyans whose lives have been taken by the police.
Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja suspended several officers on duty at the time of Ojwang’s death, and Kenya’s Independent Policing Oversight Authority launched an inquiry.
Human rights groups are demanding more action, terming Ojwang’s death as a possible attempt to silence the digital community.
