Communications Authority of Kenya headquarters in Nairobi/FILE
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has distanced itself from social media reports associating it with the controversial death of Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody.
In a statement on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, CA termed as misleading allegations that it provided data on the whereabouts of the deceased to law enforcement officers.
“We note with grave concern the misleading claims on social media platforms alleging that CA provided data on the whereabouts of the deceased to law enforcement,” the agency said.
“This position is factually erroneous. We categorically distance CA from any involvement whatsoever on this matter.”
CA clarified that it is a regulator and does not have access to real-time location data of mobile subscribers.
“Further, the Authority does not initiate, direct, or participate in the operational use of data held by our licensees,” it added.
CA explained that any request for data from law enforcement agencies is governed by strict legal provisions that include judicial oversight and is limited to instances where there is a valid court order or lawful request as per the law.
“The Authority operates under the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998 and is mandated to facilitate the development of the information and communications sectors including broadcasting, cybersecurity, multimedia, telecommunications, electronic commerce, postal and courier services,” it added.
CA maintained that its role is confined to oversight and compliance, ensuring that licensees adhere to the prevailing regulatory requirements.
Ojwang’ was arrested in Homa Bay over a social media post allegedly targeting Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.
He was later transferred to Nairobi’s Central Police Station, where he was found unconscious in his cell and later pronounced dead at Mbagathi Hospital.
An autopsy revealed he died from head injuries, neck compression, and multiple soft tissue trauma—contradicting initial police claims of self-harm.
