Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Kenya Police Service, Eliud Lagat, has stepped aside to pave the way for an independent investigation into the controversial death of Albert Ojwang.

The Homa Bay blogger died under mysterious circumstances while in police custody at the Central Police Station.

In a press statement released on Monday, June 16, Lagat explained that his decision was informed by a desire to uphold the principles of integrity, accountability, and transparency as investigations unfold.

He expressed that he made the decision in the good and conscious thought of his role and responsibilities as the Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service.

"In view of the ongoing investigations on the unfortunate incident of the death of Albert Ojwang, I have today opted to step aside pending completion of investigations,” the statement read.

He further assured the public of his full cooperation with investigative agencies and expressed sympathy to Ojwang's family.

With Lagat stepping aside, his deputy will now temporarily oversee the operations of the office of the Deputy Inspector General until the probe concludes.

“I offer immense condolences to the family of Albert Ojwang for their great loss,” he concluded.

Lagat’s announcement has since generated a storm of reactions online, with many questioning whether he had effectively resigned or merely stepped aside temporarily.

The statement, though clear in its wording, has fueled intense public debate and suspicion about whether the move is symbolic or substantive.

Ojwang, a bold and outspoken digital activist, was arrested after publishing a social media post alleging that Lagat was involved in corruption and abuse of office.

The father of one was driven from his parents' home in Homa Bay and taken to the Central Police Station in Nairobi.

Shortly after his arrest, Ojwang was reported dead while under police custody, an incident that sparked nationwide protests and drew harsh nationwide criticism.

Kenyans and civil society groups accused the police of foul play, calling for a thorough and transparent investigation into what they believe is yet another instance of extrajudicial killing.

In a related development, Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam appeared visibly distressed during his arraignment in court.

Lawyers Willis Otieno and Okiya Omtatah have added their voices to the chorus of concern, demanding the immediate arrest of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) boss Amin Mohamed.

They accuse the DCI of tampering with medical records in an attempt to cover up the incident.

Initial police reports claimed that Ojwang hit his head on the wall, but an autopsy ruled out self-inflicted injuries.

As the country waits for answers, Ojwang’s death has reignited the conversation about police accountability and freedom of expression.

Public pressure continues to mount for swift justice, and the spotlight is now firmly on the country’s security apparatus and its response to dissenting voices.

Whether Lagat’s decision is a genuine step toward justice or a political smokescreen remains to be seen.

For now, Kenyans continue to demand clarity, transparency, and above all, justice for Albert Ojwang.

Source: TUKO.co.ke