NAIROBI — In a sudden twist in the investigation into the death of popular X influencer Albert Ojwang, Kenya’s Chief Government Pathologist, Dr Johansen Oduor, has stepped down from performing the autopsy.
The autopsy, initially slated for 10 a.m. on Monday, was pushed to 2 p.m. to allow for Oduor’s arrival. But moments before the procedure was to begin, Oduor told the family he could not go ahead, citing a personal connection to the deceased.
“I cannot proceed with the post-mortem because Albert is from my extended family,” Dr Oduor is quoted as saying, according to a source close to the family.
Ojwang, a respected teacher and online commentator, died under unclear circumstances on Sunday, 8 June. His sudden death sent shockwaves across social media, where he had built a strong following.
Family lawyer Julius Juma told reporters outside the mortuary that the family remains in the dark.
“We don’t have a clear understanding of what caused Albert’s death. That’s why this autopsy is so important,” Juma said.
Despite Oduor’s withdrawal, the autopsy went ahead under the watch of a team of independent experts. Present were representatives from the Police Reforms Working Group and the Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU), both of which have been involved in previous high-profile post-mortem reviews.
According to preliminary observations shared by the family’s legal team, Ojwang’s body bore deep head injuries. Additional wounds were noted on his hands and shoulders.
But as of Monday evening, there was still no official confirmation on the cause of death.
Oduor, who has served in the government for decades, is no stranger to emotionally charged cases. His decision to step aside was met with mixed reactions — some praised the transparency, while others raised concerns about delays in finding the truth.
“He’s done the right thing,” said Dr Mumbi Nduku, a Nairobi-based forensic expert. “In cases like this, even the appearance of bias can cloud the findings. Recusing himself preserves the integrity of the process.”
Earlier in the day, Oduor was seen meeting with Ojwang’s immediate family. Details of that meeting remain private.
The family, still reeling from the loss, has asked for space and called for patience as investigations continue.
Ojwang’s online community, meanwhile, continues to demand answers, with hashtags bearing his name trending throughout the day.
“We just want justice for Albert,” wrote one follower. “He was a voice for many.”
Authorities have yet to comment on whether a criminal investigation is underway.
