Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service (KPS) Eliud Lagat has finally stepped aside from his position pending the outcome of investigations into the death of Albert Ojwang.
In a statement dated June 16, DIG Lagat noted that his decision was guided by a sense of duty and responsibility.
“In the good and conscious thought of my role and responsibilities as the Deputy Inspector General of Kenya Police Service, and in view of the ongoing investigations on the unfortunate incident of the death of Mr. Albert Ojwang, I have today opted to step aside from the office of the Deputy Inspector General Kenya Police Service pending completion of investigations,” he said.
DIG Lagat steps aside pending investigations. Photo: Courtesy.
Lagat moreover went on to announce that his deputy will take over the functions of the office during the period of his absence.
“The functions of the office will henceforth be performed by my deputy until completion of the investigations,” he added.
He further expressed willingness to cooperate with investigative authorities and conveyed his sympathy to Ojwang’s family.
“I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations of the unfortunate incident. I offer immense condolences to the family of Mr. Albert Ojwang for their great loss,” he concluded.
This comes in the wake of mounting calls from human rights groups, civil society, and a section of lawmakers demanding accountability and transparency in the case of the late Albert Ojwang.
Over the past week, protests have been planned across major towns, with demonstrators calling for justice and an overhaul of police leadership implicated in custodial deaths.
Influencer Ojwang died while in police custody at the Central Police Station in Nairobi, hours after his arrest at his father’s house in Homa Bay County.
Hours after his death, the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, confirmed that Ojwang was arrested after Lagat lodged a complaint.
