NAIROBI, Kenya — The High Court sitting in Kibera has scheduled hearing dates in the murder case of teacher Albert Ojwang, directing that the trial be concluded before April due to its heightened public interest.
Justice Diana Kavedza on Tuesday fixed the hearing for March 17, 23, 24, 30, and 31, and ordered all parties to strictly comply with case management timelines to avoid delays.
“The matter attracts immense public interest and must be concluded expeditiously,” the judge said, stressing the need for disciplined conduct by both the prosecution and the defence.
The court directed investigators and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to supply the defence with all witness statements and relevant video footage within the stipulated timelines. Justice Kavedza warned that failure to comply would not be tolerated.
Under the court’s directions, protected witnesses will testify during the first two days of the hearing. By agreement of all parties, the trial will commence on March 17, with the prosecution expected to call five witnesses on the opening day.
Justice Kavedza also ordered the DPP to disclose in advance the identities of the initial witnesses to be called, saying early disclosure would help ensure orderly proceedings. The defence was similarly directed to prepare its cross-examination in advance.
The prosecution informed the court that it intends to rely on CCTV footage as part of its evidence, a move that is expected to play a central role in the trial.
The case involves former Central Police Station Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Samson Talaam, Police Constable James Mukhwana, and four other co-accused persons, all charged with murder in relation to Ojwang’s death.
The six accused persons remain in custody after the court declined to grant them bail in 2025.
In her earlier ruling denying bail, Justice Kavedza cited the likelihood of interference with witnesses, including both civilians and police officers, as well as the intense public interest surrounding the case.
Ojwang died while in police custody in June 2025, an incident that triggered nationwide protests and widespread destruction of property. The court described the unrest as a compelling factor in its decision to deny bail pending the conclusion of the trial.
“The circumstances surrounding the death, coupled with the public reaction, create a real risk of witness interference and disruption of justice if the accused are released,” the judge ruled at the time.
Human rights groups and civil society organisations have closely followed the proceedings, viewing the case as a benchmark for how Kenya’s justice system handles deaths in custody.
