A secret letter penned by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has thrust Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat into a storm of controversy, raising serious questions about his integrity and transparency.
The letter contradicts Lagat’s public claim that he “stepped aside” to allow unhindered investigations into the death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody.
On June 16, 2025, Lagat announced he was stepping aside to facilitate probes into Ojwang’s mysterious death at Nairobi’s Central Police Station, where the blogger was held after Lagat filed a defamation complaint against him.
However, court documents now show Lagat merely applied for an 18-day annual leave, approved by IG Kanja on the same day.
The letter, signed by Kanja, confirms the leave from June 17, 2025, and assigns Lagat’s duties to his principal assistant, wishing him a “restful break.”
In a sworn affidavit, Lagat denies vacating his office or appointing a replacement, directly contradicting his earlier statement.
This revelation has sparked outrage, with activists and the public accusing Lagat of misleading the nation.
The incident has reignited scrutiny over his role in Ojwang’s death, with ongoing Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) investigations yet to clear him.
Critics, including rights advocate Eliud Karanja Matindi, argue that Lagat’s actions undermine public trust in the Kenya Police Service, fueling demands for his resignation or prosecution.
By Newsmedia