Protests broke out in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, on Thursday in response to the death of Albert Ojwang, sparking widespread outrage and demands for accountability. Demonstrators called for the immediate resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police, Eliud Lagat, whom they linked to the incident.
In response to growing public pressure, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja addressed the matter, clarifying why Deputy IG Lagat remains in office. Speaking before the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security, Kanja stated that Lagat will only be required to step aside if his name formally appears in the ongoing investigation.
The Inspector General also issued a public apology for the police’s initial statement regarding Ojwang’s death. The original report had claimed that Ojwang sustained fatal injuries after hitting his head on a wall—an account now widely regarded as misleading.
Kanja further assured the committee and the public that the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is leading a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the case. He emphasized that all individuals implicated or mentioned in connection with the incident will be summoned to provide their accounts.
The protests reflect growing public frustration over allegations of police brutality and lack of accountability within the force. Many are closely watching the developments, hoping the inquiry will deliver justice for Albert Ojwang and bring about systemic reforms in law enforcement oversight.
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