Kenya’s Deputy Police Chief Steps Aside Amid Investigation into Blogger’s Death
In a shocking turn of events, Kenya’s Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat stepped aside on Monday as the investigation into the death of blogger Albert Ojwang continues. Ojwang’s death, which occurred while he was in police custody, has sparked widespread outrage and protests in Nairobi, with several demonstrators injured and property destroyed. The blogger was accused of defaming Lagat, who filed an official complaint that led to Ojwang’s arrest.
Lagat announced his decision to step aside, stating, "I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations of the unfortunate incident." However, he failed to acknowledge that he was the complainant in the case. The investigation into Ojwang’s online activities began after Lagat filed the complaint, according to Inspector General Douglas Kanja.
Ojwang was arrested on June 6 in western Kenya and driven 400 kilometers to Nairobi for publishing what police deemed "false information" on social media. Tragically, he was found dead two days later at the Central Police Station. The police initially attributed his death to "hitting his head against the cell wall," but a pathology report revealed a different story. The report showed that Ojwang had sustained a head injury, neck compression, and other injuries consistent with assault.
As the investigation unfolds, two police officers, Samson Talam and James Mukhwana, have been arrested in connection with Ojwang’s death. The detectives leading the investigation have requested more time to examine the case. President William Ruto has pledged to "protect citizens from rogue police officers" and called for a thorough investigation into Ojwang’s death.
This incident has raised concerns about police brutality in Kenya, which has a history of such incidents. The blogger’s death comes almost a year after several activists and protesters were abducted and killed by Kenyan police during finance bill protests. Ruto had previously vowed to end brutality and extrajudicial killings, but the latest incident has put his government’s commitment to accountability to the test.
As the world watches, Kenya must now confront its troubled past and work towards a future where citizens can express themselves freely without fear of persecution or violence. The investigation into Ojwang’s death is a critical step towards justice and accountability, and it remains to be seen whether the government will deliver on its promises to protect its citizens. One thing is certain: the eyes of the world are on Kenya, and the country’s response to this tragedy will have far-reaching implications for its people and its future.
