- IPOA Chair Issack Hassan says joining IG’s press briefing on Ojwang’s death was unplanned
- He called it a mistake and apologized publicly
- DPP approves murder charges against 3 police officers and 3 civilians
- Ojwang died in custody after arrest in Homa Bay
- IPOA insists it won’t be used to clean up police misconduct
Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) Chairperson Issack Hassan has admitted he should not have joined Inspector General Douglas Kanja during the recent press conference on the death of Albert Ojwang.
Speaking on Monday, June 23, Hassan said his presence was unplanned and came at the IG’s request while he was visiting the Central Police Station.
“The IG asked me to join him in the press conference. It was a mistake. It should not have happened and we apologize,” he said.
Public Outrage Over IPOA’s Independence
The joint appearance drew sharp reactions online, with many Kenyans questioning IPOA’s neutrality in the controversial case.
But Hassan stood his ground, saying IPOA would not allow itself to be turned into a ‘fire extinguisher’ for police misconduct.
“We will not be used as a cover-up. IPOA remains committed to its independent mandate,” he stated firmly.
DPP Moves In, Charges Six With Murder
Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga has approved murder charges against OCS Samson Talaam, James Mukhwana, and Peter Kimani—all from Central Police Station.
Also to be charged are civilians John Ngige Gitau, Gin Ammitou Abwao, and Brian Mwaniki Njue.
“The suspects will appear in court on June 23 at 2:00pm to face murder charges,” the DPP confirmed in an official statement.
The DPP’s action follows IPOA’s submission of its inquiry file on June 22, which prompted a swift review by a special team of senior prosecutors.
The charges are under Section 204 of the Penal Code, which deals with murder offences in Kenya.
Ojwang, a teacher and blogger, died in police custody after being arrested at his father’s home in Homa Bay County.
His death, under unclear circumstances, sparked nationwide outrage and demands for justice, especially from youth-led movements.
The case has now become a flashpoint in the wider fight against police brutality in Kenya.
IPOA’s apology and the DPP’s bold move to charge officers could mark a turning point in how Kenya handles deaths in custody—but whether justice is served remains to be seen.
