Editor’s note: Some names have been changed to protect people who say they fear retaliation. Philip Onyango Ombajo has denied wrongdoing. Allegations described in this story remain disputed unless otherwise stated by court records or official findings.
The Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya, through lawyers representing Joy Mupalia, has asked prosecutors to review sexual misconduct allegations against former Kenyan youth basketball coach Philip Onyango Ombajo.
In a letter dated Sept. 27, lawyers from Lumallas, Achieng, and Kavere Advocates said they were seeking further action in the case. The firm said it was acting on behalf of FIDA and Mupalia.
“It is in the interest of justice that he be charged with the offense of sexual harassment among other offenses,” the lawyers wrote.
The lawyers said they had received new information that they believe could support further investigation.
“We have since received new information that we believe may be useful in getting him charged appropriately,” the letter said. “Further, we have since been approached by several other ladies who are willing to testify against him and to report their ordeals under his hand.”
New allegations
One woman who previously spoke to The Africana Voice, identified here as Solara, said she is related to Onyango and alleged that he attempted to rape her more than a decade ago.
The Africana Voice has not published Solara’s real name because she said she fears retaliation.
Onyango did not respond to a request for comment on Solara’s specific allegation. In previous interviews, he denied wrongdoing.
Solara said she is prepared to pursue the matter.
“I’m ready to fight for my justice and the other girls’ justice,” she said. “I’m ready to talk so we can find justice.”
Onyango has previously been accused by Mupalia of attempted rape after a July 3 encounter at a Nairobi hotel. Prosecutors initially declined to charge him, citing insufficient evidence.
Questions about power and opportunity
Several women interviewed by The Africana Voice described Onyango as a powerful figure in Kenyan women’s basketball who could influence access to teams, schools, and playing opportunities.
Some said Onyango helped connect young players to schools or basketball programs. Others alleged that he used that position to seek sexual access or control.
The Africana Voice has not independently verified every allegation. However, lawyers representing Mupalia say additional women have expressed willingness to report their experiences to authorities.
Legal context
Kenya’s Sexual Offenses Act includes provisions covering sexual harassment and incest. Any decision on charges would rest with prosecutors after they review the evidence.
The lawyers also raised concerns that some complainants may need protection because of fear, intimidation, or retaliation.
Solara alleged that Onyango threatened her and later made it harder for her to advance academically. The Africana Voice has not independently confirmed that claim.
Mupalia welcomes the legal push
Mupalia said she welcomed the request for prosecutors to revisit the case.
“Justice should be served for all of us,” Mupalia said. “He should be arrested. He has destroyed our lives.”
She urged other women with information to come forward.
“They should come out and end this,” Mupalia said. “They should not be scared because there are people supporting them.”
Her accusation against Onyango remains disputed. Onyango has denied wrongdoing.
Prosecutors hold the next decision
The lawyers asked prosecutors to consider further investigation, possible arrest, and appropriate charges.
“Our instructions are to seek your prompt intervention in this matter, for further investigating, re-arresting the accused and preferring appropriate charges against him,” the letter said.
If prosecutors reopen the matter, the case could expand beyond Mupalia’s original complaint. However, any additional charges would depend on the evidence, witness statements, and prosecutorial review.
For now, the decision rests with the prosecutor.
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