Kenya’s Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat has stepped aside from his duties as investigations intensify into the death of blogger Albert Ojwang, who died under suspicious circumstances while in police custody.
Ojwang was arrested on June 6 in western Kenya for allegedly defaming Lagat on social media and was transported over 400 kilometers to Nairobi. Two days later, he was found dead in a Central Police Station cell. Authorities initially claimed the 30-year-old had fatally injured himself by striking his head against a wall. However, a pathologist’s report contradicted the police narrative, citing head trauma, neck compression, and widespread injuries consistent with assault.
Lagat, who filed the original complaint that led to Ojwang’s arrest, did not reference his role in the case when announcing his decision to step down. “I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations,” he said Monday.
The death has ignited days of protests in Nairobi, with demonstrators calling for justice and accountability. Several people were injured and property damaged amid clashes with police.
President William Ruto, facing renewed scrutiny over police conduct, pledged that his administration would shield Kenyans from “rogue officers” and ensure that investigations into the death proceed unhindered.
The incident has drawn parallels to previous allegations of police brutality, including a wave of abductions and killings during last year’s finance bill protests. Despite past promises by Ruto to end extrajudicial killings, critics argue that systemic reform is long overdue.
