Autopsy reveals slain Molo activist Richard Otieno died from severe head injuries

A post-mortem examination of the late activist Richard Otieno, also known as ‘Molo President,’ has revealed that he died from severe head injuries inflicted by a sharp object, likely a machete or axe, used multiple times.

The autopsy, led by government pathologist Dr Johansen Oduor at the Kericho County Hospital Mortuary, lasted two hours and provided key details about the brutal nature of the attack.

Another pathologist, Dr. Titus Ngulugu, who represented the family and the Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU) during the procedure, confirmed the findings, describing them as accurate and thorough.

Speaking on behalf of the family, their lawyer, Rosalinda Wamaitha, expressed satisfaction with the ongoing probe by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), saying justice must be served.

"There were multiple slash wounds at the back of the head which led to a fracture of the skull and excessive bleeding of the brain. There was also slashing of the frontal area, though this one didn't fracture the skull,” said Dr. Oduor.

“There were also bruises on the face. What we found also were more bruises on the arms, which looked like someone was trying to defend themselves.”

The late activist was attacked and killed by unknown assailants on Saturday night last week as he headed home, just 200 meters from Elburgon Police Station. His body was found dumped in a thicket near the Molo River in Turi on Sunday.

Angry residents of Elburgon town Molo Constituency on Sunday stormed Elburgon Police Station demanding answers from police.

Otieno had been a harsh critic of the government and the area MP Kimani Kuria, for failing to deliver on the promises made during campaigns.

The deceased, who vied for the Elburgon MCA seat back in 2022 and lost, was among those who were arrested during the Gen Z protests in Molo, for allegedly leading protests in the area.