Head Injury and Neck Compression Caused Albert Ojwang’s Death, Pathologist Confirms

 

By Brian Kiplimo 

Preliminary autopsy results have confirmed that Albert Ojwang, the young Kenyan blogger who died under mysterious circumstances last week, succumbed to head injuries and neck compression, with additional trauma observed across his body.

In a press briefing held shortly after the post-mortem examination, Dr. Bernard Midia, one of the lead forensic pathologists, said the nature and distribution of Ojwang’s injuries point to external physical assault, ruling out the possibility of self-inflicted harm.

"We found serious injuries on the head, neck compression, and soft tissue injuries spread across the body," said Dr. Midia. "The bleeding patterns, particularly on the head, were spatially spread—including the face, the back, and the side of the head—indicating force from multiple angles. These are unlikely to be self-inflicted injuries."

Dr. Midia added that the injuries to the upper limbs and trunk, as well as the signs of a possible struggle, support the conclusion that Ojwang was assaulted before his death.

The autopsy was conducted by a multi-agency team of five forensic pathologists, with representation from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), Kenya National Human Rights Commission (KNHRC), and the Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU). Ojwang’s family and their legal representatives were also present during the post-mortem.

Tissue Samples Collected for Further Investigation

To aid ongoing investigations, the medical team collected tissue and fluid samples for toxicological and histological analysis at forensic laboratories. The results are expected to provide further insight into the cause and timeline of Ojwang’s death.

Ojwang, a popular social commentator and digital activist, died during a period of heightened tension amid anti-government protests. His death has drawn national attention, with multiple civil rights groups alleging police involvement and calling for accountability.

Calls for Justice Intensify

Speaking outside the mortuary, human rights activists reiterated their demand for swift investigations and prosecution of those responsible.

"This autopsy confirms what we feared—that Albert’s death was not natural," said Hussein Khalid, a prominent civil society leader. "We demand that the police officers involved be identified, prosecuted, and justice delivered."

The autopsy findings are expected to intensify scrutiny on the conduct of law enforcement during recent protests, with calls growing louder for reforms, resignations, and reparations.

Meanwhile, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is reportedly awaiting the full post-mortem and forensic analysis report before determining the next legal steps.

June 10, 2025