Kenya’s deputy police chief steps aside amid probe into blogger’s death
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Demonstrators march through Nairobi demanding justice for blogger Albert Ojwang following his suspicious death in police custody.
Kenya’s Deputy Police Chief Steps Aside Amid Blogger Death Probe
Eliud Lagat steps down as questions grow over police brutality and custodial death of blogger Albert Ojwang.
Kenya’s Deputy Inspector General of Police, Eliud Lagat, has stepped aside pending investigations into the death in custody of blogger Albert Ojwang, a move that comes amid public outrage and renewed scrutiny over police brutality.
Ojwang, 31, died two days after his arrest on June 6, following allegations that he had defamed Lagat in a social media post. His death sparked mass protests in Nairobi, with injuries reported and property destroyed during clashes with police.
Police Account Contradicted by Autopsy
Police initially claimed Ojwang died by hitting his head against a cell wall. However, an autopsy refuted this version, revealing injuries consistent with assault, including head trauma, neck compression, and multiple bruises.
Lagat Denies Wrongdoing but Steps Aside
In a statement, Lagat said he was stepping aside “in view of the ongoing investigations,” adding:
“I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations of the unfortunate incident.”
He did not mention his role as the original complainant, which police sources later confirmed was the trigger for Ojwang’s arrest.
Police Under Pressure as Arrests Made
Two senior officers — Samson Talam, the Officer Commanding the Central Police Station, and James Mukhwana, his colleague — have been arrested. A technician accused of disabling CCTV at the station is also under investigation.
The detectives leading the case have requested additional time to conduct in-depth inquiries.
President Ruto Calls for Accountability
President William Ruto, who came to power in 2022 promising to end extrajudicial killings, called for a transparent investigation into the blogger’s death.
“My government will protect citizens from rogue police officers,” he stated.
Ruto personally spoke with Ojwang’s father, offering condolences and pledging financial support for funeral costs.
A Pattern of Brutality
Ojwang’s death comes nearly a year after multiple protesters and activists were abducted or killed during demonstrations against a controversial finance bill. The incidents have led to sustained calls for police reform and accountability at the highest levels.
Kenya’s Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) reports that at least 20 people have died in police custody in the past four months, while over 150 cases of extrajudicial killings were recorded in 2024.
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