Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has officially resigned, marking a significant turning point in the ongoing push for justice over the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang. His exit follows weeks of public outrage, legal demands, and calls for accountability.
Highlights:
- DIG Eliud Lagat resigned today, June 16, 2025.
- His resignation follows public pressure over the death of Albert Ojwang.
- Ojwang died in police custody days after allegedly defaming Lagat.
- Multiple officers are under investigation; some already detained.
- Civil society, political figures, and religious leaders had urged Lagat to step aside.
Main Story:
Deputy Inspector General Eliud Kipkoech Lagat has tendered his resignation in the wake of the explosive case surrounding the death of Albert Ojwang, a blogger who died under suspicious circumstances while in police custody.
The resignation comes after intense public scrutiny and growing calls for accountability from rights groups, church leaders, and senior legal figures — including former Chief Justice David Maraga and Attorney General Justin Muturi.
Ojwang was arrested on June 7 in Homa Bay, allegedly for publishing defamatory content about DIG Lagat. He was found dead the next day in custody, with an autopsy revealing severe head injuries and signs of neck compression. Allegations quickly surfaced that Lagat had filed the initial complaint against Ojwang.
Protests have rocked several towns as activists and citizens demand justice. “Justice for Albert Ojwang” has trended across platforms, with demonstrators insisting on swift prosecution of those involved in his death. Maraga, during a demonstration at Vigilance House, gave police until June 25 to deliver justice.
Several officers, including Central Police Station OCS Samson Tallam and Constable James Mukhwana, are already in custody. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is leading investigations into possible torture, evidence tampering, and command chain negligence. Deleted CCTV footage and physical assault are among the leads being pursued.
Inspector General Douglas Kanja confirmed receiving and accepting Lagat’s resignation, noting that the DIG stepped down voluntarily. While no formal charges have been filed against Lagat, the move is seen as a response to growing pressure from the public and civil society.
Lagat’s resignation may be the first big step, but for many Kenyans, the real justice will only come when those responsible for Albert Ojwang’s death are held to full account.
