A deepening rift among Statehouse operatives over the fate of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat has thrust Kenya’s police leadership into the spotlight, according to a report in Sunday’s Standard publication.
Just days ago, senior officials were reportedly advocating for Lagat’s return to office following his temporary step-aside amid investigations into the death of blogger Albert Ojwang.
However, a dramatic shift has seen these same insiders now pushing for his removal, citing concerns over the Kenya Police Service’s reputation and public trust.
As protests intensify and calls for accountability grow, the controversy surrounding Lagat’s leadership underscores broader challenges facing Kenya’s law enforcement.
Lagat, who stepped aside on June 16, 2025, to allow the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to investigate Ojwang’s death in custody, faces mounting scrutiny.
The blogger’s arrest stemmed from a defamation complaint allegedly filed by Lagat, who claimed Ojwang posted false and malicious information about him, accusing him of corruption within the National Police Service.
An independent autopsy revealed signs of assault, contradicting initial police claims of suicide, fuelling public outrage and demands for Lagat’s arrest.
Citizens reflect this sentiment, arguing that Lagat’s “stepping aside” is a paid vacation with full salary and privileges, evading true accountability.
The Standard report highlights a growing divide within Statehouse, with some operatives warning that reinstating Lagat could irreparably damage the police service’s image.
“Allowing Lagat back would send the wrong message to the public,” one insider told the publication, emphasising the risk of further eroding trust in law enforcement.
Police officers have echoed this concern, cautioning that Lagat’s return could trigger more unrest at a time when Kenya is already grappling with anti-government protests.
These demonstrations, marking the anniversary of last year’s pro-democracy uprisings, have been fuelled by Ojwang’s death and broader demands for President William Ruto’s resignation.
Amid the controversy, calls are growing to replace Lagat with another top officer who was a strong contender for the DIG role during the 2024 selection process.
Sources suggest this candidate, who demonstrated reform-minded leadership during interviews, could restore stability to the Kenya Police Service.
The National Police Service Commission (NPSC) faces pressure to act swiftly, with activist Eliud Karanja Matindi filing a petition challenging the legality of Lagat’s decision to appoint his principal assistant, Patrick Tito, as acting DIG.
Matindi argues that the NPSC has failed to uphold its constitutional duty to competitively recruit a replacement, further complicating the leadership crisis.
Public anger over Lagat’s case continues to escalate, with protests in Nairobi and other cities demanding his arrest and prosecution. Former Chief Justice David Maraga has called for Lagat’s immediate arrest, citing prima facie evidence of his involvement in Ojwang’s arrest, torture, and death.
Netizens have labelled Lagat “criminally culpable”, urging his resignation to restore accountability. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has also raised alarms about police violence, noting that criminal gangs have been operating alongside officers during protests, further tarnishing the service’s reputation.
As the government grapples with this crisis, the pressure to resolve Lagat’s case is intensifying. With no evidence yet directly linking him to Ojwang’s murder, Lagat is set to resume office on July 14, but the shifting stance of State House operatives and growing public unrest suggest his return may face significant resistance.
The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further protests if decisive action is not taken. For now, Kenya’s police leadership crisis continues to test the government’s commitment to justice and reform.
