The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Amnesty International Kenya Director Irungu Houghton has called on Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat to resign on moral grounds as investigations into the death of Albert Ojwang continue.
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Speaking in a televised interview on Monday, June 16, 2025, Irungu argued that Lagat’s continued presence in office damages the credibility of the police service, especially since Ojwang died while in police custody after being arrested in a defamation case linked to Lagat.
“He should not resign because he is guilty, but out of respect for the dignity of public service. At this point, many Kenyans see him as a person of interest until proven otherwise. Remaining in office taints the institution’s integrity,” Irungu said.
He emphasized that Lagat has a constitutional and moral obligation to ensure public trust in the police, and that temporarily stepping down would allow for an impartial and credible investigation.
“This is about integrity, not guilt,” Irungu added. “When one’s reputation is under public scrutiny, Chapter Six of the Constitution demands ethical leadership. It was inappropriate for him to jointly address this matter with the Inspector General—it harmed the image of the service.”
Lagat had been the complainant in the defamation case that led to Ojwang’s arrest. Following his detention, Ojwang reportedly died in a police cell under suspicious circumstances.
Despite mounting pressure from rights organizations and members of the public, Lagat has not stepped aside. Civil society groups have increasingly called for accountability, citing the need for transparency and justice.
On Sunday, June 15, religious leaders joined the chorus of demands. Stephen Mutua, Vice Chair of the Kenya Coalition of Church Alliances and Ministries (KCCM), condemned the incident and called for all implicated officials to step down pending the outcome of investigations.
“Everyone connected to this case should leave office until the matter is resolved. If they are later cleared, they can resume their roles,” said Mutua. “We need answers. Why did Albert Ojwang die, and who was responsible?”
He added that the death raises serious concerns about both individual officers and broader issues of accountability within the police force.
