Nelson Havi opposes cop Eliud Lagat’s return

Prominent lawyer and former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Nelson Havi has joined the growing list of Kenyans opposing the reinstatement of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat following the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody.

Taking to X on Monday, July 14, 2025, Havi was firm in his stance.

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“Eliud Lagat should not be allowed to resume duty as DIG.”

Lagat stepped aside in June 2025 amid public uproar and demands for accountability after Ojwang’s death. The 31-year-old blogger had been arrested by police shortly after Lagat lodged a complaint, accusing him of defamation. Days later, Ojwang was reported dead while in custody at the Central Police Station in Nairobi.

Police initially claimed he died from self-inflicted injuries, but that narrative crumbled after an autopsy indicated he likely succumbed to blunt force trauma, sparking accusations of police brutality and foul play. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), the state watchdog mandated to investigate such incidents, later ruled out suicide and initiated further inquiries.

Debate grows over Lagat

While some leaders, including Soy MP David Kiplagat, have defended DIG Lagat, arguing that he followed the law by formally reporting the blogger, critics like Havi insist that the optics and circumstances around Ojwang’s death remain too murky for Lagat to resume office.

“Even if IPOA cleared him, public confidence in the police command structure has been severely shaken,” said a Nairobi-based human rights observer who echoed Havi’s sentiments. “We can’t afford to move on like nothing happened.”

Ojwang’s case has highlighted deeper systemic issues within Kenya’s security sector. The police chief at the Central Police Station, another officer, and a technician have since been arrested and charged in connection with the incident. President William Ruto, who initially offered condolences to Ojwang’s family and pledged KSh2 million for funeral arrangements, has promised a thorough and impartial investigation.