Kenyans have continued to call for the resignation and Prosecution of the Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, Eliud Kipkoech Lagat, despite him formally stepping aside from office as investigations intensify into the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang’, whose recent arrest followed a defamation complaint lodged by the senior officer.
In a statement issued on Monday, Lagat said the decision was made “in good and conscious thought” of the responsibility attached to his office and the gravity of public concern surrounding the case.
“I have today opted to step aside from the office of the Deputy Inspector General – Kenya Police Service pending completion of investigations. The functions of the office will henceforth be performed by my deputy until the investigations are concluded.” he said.
Lagat pledged full cooperation with investigators and extended condolences to Ojwang’s family, adding: “I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations of the unfortunate incident.”
Ojwang’s death has sparked national outrage and prompted widespread calls for police accountability.
The blogger had recently published online claims accusing Lagat of corruption — including alleged manipulation of officer postings in the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and traffic units for personal gain. One viral post alleged Lagat’s involvement in acquiring a $2.6 million property in Dubai, labeling him a “mafia police” figure.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, while addressing the Senate on June 11, confirmed the probe began following these viral allegations. The public outcry escalated last week as demonstrations erupted, demanding Lagat’s resignation.
On Monday, former Chief Justice David Maraga added to the pressure, calling for Lagat’s immediate arrest and prosecution.
“There is prima facie evidence that Mr. Eliud Lagat, directly or indirectly, is implicated in the illegal arrest, torture, strangulation, and eventual murder of the late Albert Ojwang’,” Maraga stated.
Kenyans who took to social media reacting to DIG Lagat’s decision, stated that his stepping aside was not enough.
"The Honourable thing he could do to Kenyan's was to resign." an X user stated.
" Stepping aside isn't enough he should be arrested the sooner the better." Another seconded.
"Stepping aside are just tactics to cool down things, just like president did when he fired all his Cabinet secretaries only to return ½ of it after things had cooled down" Tanui opined.
Earlier, Former Chief Justice David Maraga had given an ultimatum for Lagat’s resignation saying, "We demand that the Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lag'at resign before 25th June. Failure to do so, we will join other Kenyans to protest and demand his arrest,".
So far, Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam and Constable James Mukhwana have been arrested in connection with the case.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has also detained three civilian suspects, Gin Ammitou Abwao, Collins Karani Ireri, and Brian Mwaniki Njue, who shared a cell with Ojwang’ and are alleged to have participated in his torture under police direction.
Meanwhile, President William Ruto issued a firm warning against criminal activities within the police service, in the wake of the death of a young Kenyan blogger, Albert Ojwang in police custody.
Speaking at State House last week, Ruto said his administration will not tolerate any form of misconduct by those entrusted to protect Kenyans, regardless of their position or uniform
He urged the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) to ensure that any officer in uniform who engages in criminal activity instead of protecting citizens is brought to book and held to account decisively and efficiently.
"We cannot accept ya kwamba kuna uhalifu unaendelea na police officers wetu wengine wako involved,” he said.
“Whether criminals are in civilian or uniform, we must deal with them firmly and decisively, and the law must apply to every person so that we can protect life and property.
This, he said, will help restore the confidence of Kenyans in the security apparatus. Ruto assured the nation that any officer found culpable will face the full force of the law.
"Wale wote ambao wanatumia nafasi zao vibaya, kama ni askari ama mwingine yeyote, watajibu mbele ya sheria. Tunataka polisi waadilifu, wanaolinda wananchi, sio kuwatisha."
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the National police service discharges its responsibility, independently, fairly and with results.
Ojwang’s death in custody has reignited long-standing concerns over extrajudicial practices and impunity within the police service, intensifying demands for sweeping institutional reforms. Investigations are ongoing.
