An autopsy conducted on the body of renowned gynaecologist Dr Job Obwaka has found that he died from cardiac arrest, family representatives confirmed on Tuesday.
The post-mortem examination was carried out at Lee Funeral Home following the doctor’s death on May 1, 2026. Dr Obwaka, who was also a former board member and chairman at The Nairobi Hospital, was pronounced dead on arrival after being rushed to the facility.
Family representative Joseph Ndungu said the cardiac arrest was connected to an underlying heart condition, although additional tests are still being conducted to establish more details surrounding the death.
“However, a toxicology report is still being conducted to determine the exact cause,” Ndungu said. Ndungu added that the family was satisfied with the findings of the post-mortem examination.
The development comes as detectives continue with investigations into circumstances surrounding the death of the 83-year-old medic. Earlier, investigators informed the court that possible poisoning was among the lines of inquiry being explored.
According to an affidavit filed by Sergeant Rhoda Nzioka of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), samples collected from a residence where Dr Obwaka had been before collapsing would be submitted to the Government Chemist for toxicological analysis.
A woman identified as Beatrice Wangari is currently being held for 10 days to allow investigators to complete inquiries into the case.
“There are certain samples that are to be forwarded to the government analyst, and possibly as a result of two tests or examinations, maybe subsequently a mental assessment examination,” the prosecutor said.
However, Wangari’s defence team rejected the allegations, arguing that police officers had already searched the residence and found no evidence linking her to any poisoning claims.
The defence further stated that taking food samples from the premises would amount to an unnecessary overreach.
Dr Obwaka was widely respected in Kenya’s medical field for his contribution to women’s healthcare and medical leadership.
Over the years, he built a reputation as a dedicated obstetrician and gynaecologist and served in leadership roles at The Nairobi Hospital.
