MP Makali Mulu slams IPOA over DIG Lagat clearance in Ojwang death
Kitui Central Member of Parliament Makali Mulu has voiced sharp criticism following news that Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Eliud Lagat has been cleared in connection with the death of Albert Ojwang.
Speaking during an interview on a local TV station on Monday, July 14, 2025, Mulu warned that the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA)’s failure to pursue senior command could jeopardise the entire case and deny justice to Ojwang’s family.
You might also like
“The fact that Deputy Inspector General of police Lagat is off the hook means the Independent Policing Oversight Authority may weaken Albert Ojwang’s case so much that even the junior officers might also walk scot-free,” Mulu stated.
“In the end, justice may never be served for Ojwang’s death, but his blood will haunt someone one day.”
Ojwang, a Teacher, died under controversial circumstances during an internal operation. IPOA launched an investigation, but Mulu argue that the process has lost credibility due to a pattern of shielding senior officials from accountability.
He said IPOA often targets junior officers, who he believes are simply following orders.
“The Independent Policing Oversight Authority usually takes junior officers to court, officers who are simply following orders from their bosses,” he noted.
“We need to examine the command structure and how it’s connected, so that a proper accountability framework can be established.”
Lagat resumes office?
The clearing of DIG Lagat has sparked public concern over a broader culture of impunity within the police service. Mulu expressed disappointment that Kenyans had anticipated this outcome, suggesting it reflects a broken justice system that often favours the powerful.
“The unfortunate thing is that Kenyans expected DIG Lagat to be off the hook and back in office. It’s sad that the system often just buys time to cool public anger and manage expectations. But it’s high time we started rebuilding trust in these processes,” Mulu lamented.
He further criticised what he described as a cycle of temporary suspensions followed by quiet reinstatements.
“Most of the time, perpetrators are told to step aside, but few ever end up in court. Even when charged, many eventually find their way back into office,” he said.
Mulu called on IPOA and the government to demonstrate genuine commitment to justice and institutional reform, warning that failure to do so would erode public trust and perpetuate a dangerous precedent of impunity.
