The trial for teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody, is scheduled to begin on March 17, 2026. The High Court issued hearing dates and pretrial directions to ensure the case proceeds efficiently.
Justice Diana Kavedza directed that the prosecution will call witnesses over five days. She noted an estimated five witnesses will testify per day to facilitate expeditious proceedings.
The prosecution has lined up 28 witnesses for the case. The judge urged trimming the number where possible, including admitting some witnesses by consent.
Pretrial Conference and Witness Schedule
A pretrial conference is scheduled for Tuesday at the Kibera High Court. Parties will confirm readiness and address procedural issues before the trial begins.
The prosecution will call protected witnesses during the first two days. Five witnesses are expected to take the stand on March 17, according to Prosecutor Christine Timoi.
On March 23, the court will hear three witnesses. March 24 will see five witnesses taking the stand following initial hearing days.
Justice Kavedza directed that the identities of protected witnesses be disclosed to the court. She instructed that appropriate safeguards be maintained to protect them.
The prosecution will supply accused persons with hard copies of witness materials. The defence team will receive soft copies for review before trial.
CCTV Footage and Investigative Challenges
During the pretrial session, the court was informed about challenges in securing CCTV storage. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) faced delays but procured storage facilities on January 26, 2026.
IPOA is currently reviewing the CCTV footage for the case. Officials expect the materials to be available to the court by the close of business.
The footage is expected to provide additional evidence regarding Ojwang’s detention. Investigators believe it may clarify the circumstances leading to his death in custody.
Authorities emphasized the importance of preserving digital evidence. The High Court noted that timely access to CCTV materials is critical for a fair trial.
Circumstances Surrounding Ojwang’s Death
Albert Ojwang died on June 8, 2025, while in police custody. He was arrested in Homa Bay following a complaint over a social media post.
Ojwang was later held at Nairobi’s Central Police Station. Police initially claimed his death resulted from suicide, which sparked public scrutiny.
A post-mortem report found blunt force injuries, neck compression, and soft-tissue wounds. These injuries were inconsistent with self-harm, suggesting assault while in custody.
Ojwang’s death prompted widespread protests across Nairobi. Demonstrators demanded justice and accountability for custodial deaths.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority and other investigators pursued inquiries. Authorities subsequently approved murder charges against former Nairobi Central OCS Talaam and five others.
Public Outrage and Legal Proceedings
Ojwang’s death while in custody attracted national attention. Public outrage intensified calls for reforms in police accountability.
The accused now face trial before the High Court. Legal proceedings will examine the roles of each suspect in Ojwang’s death.
Prosecution plans indicate multiple witnesses will testify about custody and treatment. The first testimony will involve protected witnesses to prevent intimidation.
The trial is expected to be closely followed by media and civil society. Observers emphasize that the case may set precedent for custodial accountability in Kenya.
Justice Kavedza emphasized that the trial should proceed without unnecessary delays. She encouraged the prosecution and defence to streamline witnesses and evidence submissions.
Investigators continue reviewing materials, including witness statements and CCTV footage. These records will form the basis for the High Court trial in March 2026.
The Ojwang case remains a focal point for discussions on police reform. Authorities stress adherence to due process while addressing public concerns.
The High Court trial will officially begin on March 17, 2026. All parties will follow the scheduled hearing dates and pretrial directions set by Justice Kavedza.
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