Kenya’s Deputy Police Boss Steps Aside Over Death of Blogger, Human Rights Activists Demand Transparent Investigation

Source: Africa Publicity

The deputy police boss of Kenya, Eliud Lagat, has stepped to allow investigations into the death of Albert Omondi Ojwang, a Kenyan blogger and teacher who was allegedly killed in police custody in Nairobi.

Mr. Lagat came under pressure to resign from Kenya’s opposition and human rights activists as the late Ojwang was arrested after he filed a complaint, accusing the blogger of defaming him on social media platform, X.

He also stepped aside intensifying pressure, with more demonstrations planned this week by activists demanding a transparent investigation into the 31-year-old blogger’s death.

Earlier, Nairobi police noted that Mr. Ojwang died of self-inflicted injuries. They were later forced to retract the statement after an autopsy found that he likely died from assault.

Even though Mr. Lagat has denied any wrongdoing, he says in a statement that he was stepping aside in the “good and conscious thought” of his responsibilities as deputy police chief.

According to him, “I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations of the unfortunate incident.”

Mr. Lagat added that “I offer immense condolences to the family of Mr. Albert Ojwang for their great loss.”

Until the conclusion of the investigation, Mr. Lagat will have no access to his office. His duties will be performed by his deputy.

The late Ojwang was arrested in the village of Kakoth, near the western town of Homa Bay, on June 7, 2025. He was reportedly taken to the main police station in Nairobi. He reportedly died a few days later.

A report by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) says at 20 persons died in police detention in Kenya in the past four months alone.