Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Kipkoech Lagat has stepped aside from his role to allow for investigations into the death of blogger Albert Ojwang’. This move follows mounting public pressure and intense scrutiny over the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s arrest and subsequent death.Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja told the Senate last week that an investigation had been initiated after social media posts surfaced accusing DIG Lagat of corruption. The posts alleged that Lagat had appointed close allies to key positions within the police service and was under investigation by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission over claims he purchased a multimillion-shilling property in Dubai.Ojwang’ was arrested following a defamation complaint filed by Lagat. He was later found dead, with early reports suggesting he may have been tortured while in police custody. This triggered public outrage, with protestors in Nairobi taking to the streets demanding justice and chanting, “Lagat must go!”Prominent leaders, including former Chief Justice David Maraga, have weighed in on the matter, urging for immediate prosecution. Maraga stated there was “prima facie evidence” suggesting Lagat’s involvement in the unlawful arrest and torture of the blogger.The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has since arrested several individuals in connection to Ojwang’s death, including Central Police Station OCS Samson Taalam, Constable James Mukhwana, and three civilians alleged to have participated in the torture.As the probe continues, Lagat’s stepping aside is seen as a necessary step to ensure impartial investigations and restore public confidence in the National Police Service. Calls from senators and civil society for wider accountability continue to grow, with demands for top-level reforms within the police leadership.
