DIG Eliud Lagat Cleared to Resume Work as Court

DIG Eliud Lagat Cleared to Resume Work as Court Drops Blockage Bid Amid Ojwang Death Probe

Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat is free to return to work whenever he likes after an application seeking conservatory orders blocking him from accessing his office or using any facilities of the National Police Service was withdrawn on Wednesday.

The application related to the ongoing investigations into blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang’s death in police custody was dismissed after the court was told that the situation had evolved beyond it.

Ojwang lost his life in early June under unclear circumstances, sparking national outrage.

Justice Diana Kavedza allowed the withdrawal of the application after she was informed that the matter had been overtaken by events.

“The application is withdrawn as prayed. We will mention the matter on the 10th for directions on the main petition,” Justice Diana Kavedza said.

Ojwang was taken into custody after allegedly posting defamatory remarks about DIG Lagat on social media. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja reported that Lagat had lodged a formal complaint against the blogger, which prompted the arrest.

Tragically, Ojwang was later discovered with severe injuries while in custody and was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

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In the wake of Ojwang’s death, Lagat faced increasing pressure from both the public and human rights organizations, leading him to step down from his position on June 16 to facilitate a thorough investigation.

Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru, who represents the petitioner, mentioned that they are now looking to seek the court’s approval to amend the original petition to reflect the most recent developments or information.

“The application is withdrawn as prayed. We will mention the matter on the 10th for directions on the main petition,” Kavedza ruled.

So far, at least six people have been charged in connection with Ojwang’s murder, including Central Police OCS Samson Talam and Officer Mukwana, as the investigation continues to uncover the details surrounding the case.

In the meantime, Ojwang’s family held a requiem mass on Wednesday, July 2, in preparation for his burial set for Friday, July 4. The atmosphere during the mass was charged with calls for justice, as both his mother and father passionately urged for accountability to be served.

DIG Eliud Lagat Cleared to Resume Work as Court Drops Blockage Bid Amid Ojwang Death Probe