As many Kenyans express opposition towards Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat’s Vigilance House office return, his boss, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has waded into the matter.
Speaking to Nation News, IG Douglas Kanja expressed support for his deputy’s return to office and confirmed that Lagat is indeed expected to return to work on Monday, July 14.
Kanja expressed hope and support towards Lagat’s return to work stating that he hopes to see him today at Vigilance House Police Headquarters. “I hope to see him back at the office today,” said Kanja.
In defense of Lagat’s return to Vigilance House office, Kanja said the move was occasioned by the fact that he has been cleared by all investigative agencies handling Albert Ojwang’s murder.
“He has been cleared by all investigative agencies,” said Kanja in support of Lagat’s return to work.
However, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority has declined to comment on the matter citing an ongoing judicial process where six individuals have been charged with Albert Ojwang’s murder.
As he returns to work, Lagat is still facing fresh legal hurdles. A Kenyan has petitioned the court to treat Lagat’s ‘stepping aside’ as an official act of resignation.
He wants Lagat out of the DIG’s office on grounds that ‘stepping aside’ is not envisioned in the constitution and police standing orders and can only be understood as an official act of resignation from public office.
Lagat is opposing the suit. He has instructed lawyers to mount serious defense against the petition.
By Nation