Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja found himself under heavy scrutiny on Wednesday as senators pressed him for answers surrounding the controversial death of Albert Ojwang, a digital activist who died in police custody.
Appearing before the Senate, Kanja struggled to provide clear responses, repeatedly deferring to the findings of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and other investigative bodies.
When questioned about the initial police statement that claimed Ojwang had died by suicide, Kanja insisted the narrative had already been corrected in a later briefing.
“The initial information came from the station itself, but I addressed the matter in a subsequent press conference and clarified the situation,” he said, adding that the outcome of investigations would provide a clearer picture.
His explanation, however, failed to convince many senators, prompting heated exchanges on the floor. At one point, Kanja was asked to publicly apologise for what lawmakers described as the circulation of false and misleading information.
Initially, the IG declined to issue an apology, arguing that it was only fair to let IPOA complete its investigation before making any conclusive statements. But as pressure mounted from the Senate, he eventually relented.
“Based on the report we’ve received from IPOA, I offer an apology on behalf of the National Police Service for the earlier information provided regarding the circumstances of Albert Ojwang’s death,” Kanja said.
He also assured senators that any officer found responsible for spreading the false narrative would face disciplinary action once IPOA concludes its probe.
Further questions arose over the decision to transfer Ojwang from Homa Bay to Nairobi, despite being arrested far from the capital. In response, Kanja said the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) would clarify that detail but noted the alleged offence had been committed in Nairobi, justifying the move.
The Senate session exposed deep concerns about police accountability and transparency, with lawmakers demanding a more thorough and open approach from law enforcement going forward.
