A growing chorus of Members of Parliament, human rights activists, and concerned Kenyans are demanding swift action from President William Ruto against Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat following the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody.
Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher and social media influencer, died on June 8, 2025, at Nairobi’s Central Police Station, less than 24 hours after his arrest in Homa Bay.
The arrest stemmed from a complaint by Lagat, who alleged that Ojwang published false information on social media intended to tarnish his reputation.
The incident has sparked national outrage, with calls for Lagat’s suspension or prosecution intensifying after an autopsy revealed Ojwang died from severe head injuries, neck compression, and multiple soft tissue injuries consistent with assault, contradicting initial police claims of self-inflicted harm.
Amid the uproar, Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has urged calm, advocating for thorough and impartial investigations.
Passaris recounted being with Lagat at a Kenya Alliance of Residents Association meeting on June 8 when news of Ojwang’s death broke.
She described Lagat’s reaction as one of genuine surprise, suggesting he was unaware of the incident.
“He was completely out of the loop. His composure reflected genuine surprise, not that of someone aware of, let alone involved in, the death of Albert Ojwang,” Passaris stated, emphasizing that justice must target the actual perpetrators to avoid scapegoating individuals.
Government advisor Mutahi Ngunyi echoed Passaris’ call for caution, warning that fixating on Lagat could shield the true culprits.
In a post on X, Ngunyi questioned the rush to judgment, stating, “If I killed Albert Ojwang using police networks, then blamed it on DIG Lagat, who would defend Eliud Lagat? … If we push for #ArrestEliudLagat, the killer will walk free. True?” He urged Kenyans to prioritize facts over sentiment to ensure justice.
The public and political pressure continues to mount, with MPs like Kisumu West’s Rozah Mbuyu and Suba North’s Millie Odhiambo demanding Lagat’s resignation and the prosecution of those involved.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched an investigation, with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions ordering a report within seven days.
