Murkomen responds to mounting pressure for DIG Lagat to resign
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has held off on commenting definitively about the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Eliud Lagat amid mounting pressure over the death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody.
Speaking on Monday, June 16, 2025, Murkomen maintained a cautious tone, saying, “We will cross that bridge when we get there,“ in response to questions about Lagat’s fate, signalling a wait-and-see approach as the situation unfolds.
His remarks come as the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) intensifies investigations into the incident that has sparked public outrage and demands for accountability.
He noted that DIG Lagat is a seasoned police officer who understands what it takes to carry out matters of investigations, whether his conduct will act, and if his position will affect the ongoing investigations into the death of Ojwang’.
“The investigations on the death of Ojwang’ are going on with IPOA. IPOA is doing its part in terms of investigations. DIG Lagat is a seasoned police officer who understands what it takes to carry out matters of investigations and whether his conduct will act and/or whether his position can affect the ongoing investigations,” Murkomen added.
This statement underscores Lagat’s extensive experience in police investigations, a point Murkomen has previously highlighted, but it also leaves open the question of whether Lagat’s continued tenure could compromise the integrity of the probe.
Mouting pressure
The pressure on Lagat rose from the tragic death of Albert Ojwang, who was detained following a complaint by the deputy police chief accusing him of tarnishing his name on social media.
Ojwang’s death in custody, initially attributed to self-inflicted injuries by the police, was later contradicted by an autopsy report that revealed he had been assaulted, leading to accusations of torture and brutality. This revelation has further fuelled public anger and demands for justice, with opposition leader Raila Odinga condemning the “horrifying” death as part of a pattern of police violence against young Kenyans.
Murkomen’s comments come as the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) intensifies its investigations into the incident. The IPOA, an independent body mandated to ensure police accountability, is currently examining the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death, a process that has been closely watched by the public and media alike.
The authority’s role is crucial in determining whether Lagat’s position could influence the outcome of these investigations, given his senior role within the police hierarchy.
The situation is further complicated by the broader context of public trust in police institutions, which has been eroded by repeated incidents of alleged misconduct. The Kenya Police Service, established in 1907 during British colonial rule, is structured into General Duty and Formations, with regional and county commanders overseeing operations.
Lagat’s role as DIG is significant within this framework, but his association with the Ojwang case has raised questions about his ability to lead impartially during such a critical period.
As the IPOA’s investigations continue, the pressure on Murkomen and the government to address the public’s demands for accountability remains high. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for police reform and the restoration of public confidence in law enforcement agencies.
For now, Murkomen’s cautious stance suggests a delicate balancing act between supporting a seasoned officer and responding to the urgent call for justice in the wake of a tragic and controversial death.
