The High Court in Kibera has scheduled strict hearing dates in the murder case of teacher Albert Ojwang, as part of efforts to conclude the matter before April.

Justice Diana Kavedza directed that the hearing will take place on March 17, 23, 24, 30 and 31, citing the case’s public interest and the need for an expeditious trial. The judge ordered all parties to strictly comply with case management directions.

The court instructed investigators and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to supply the defence with witness statements and video evidence in a timely manner. Protected witnesses are expected to testify during the first two days of the hearing.

“By consent of the parties, the court directed that the hearing will commence on March 17, with five witnesses bonded to testify on the first day,” the court ruled.

Justice Kavedza also ordered the DPP to share in advance the names of the initial prosecution witnesses to avoid confusion during the proceedings.

The defence was directed to adequately prepare its questions, while the prosecution confirmed that CCTV footage would be presented as part of its evidence.

Last year, the court denied bail to former Central Police Station Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Samson Talaam, Police Constable James Mukhwana, and four other co-accused persons charged with Ojwang’s murder.

In her ruling, Justice Kavedza cited the risk of interference with both civilian and police witnesses, as well as the strong public interest surrounding the case, as compelling reasons to keep the accused in custody.

“The scale of public unrest following the deceased’s death constitutes a compelling reason to deny bail,” the judge observed, noting that Ojwang’s death in police custody in June sparked nationwide protests and widespread destruction of property.

The six accused persons remain in police custody as the trial proceeds.