There was confusion on Monday, July 14, about whether embattled Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat had officially returned to work after stepping aside over the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang in police custody.
Despite reports indicating Lagat would return to office after being cleared by internal investigations and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), Police Spokesperson Michael Muchiri disputed the claims.
“I am not aware of Lagat’s return to office. Ask those who are reporting that he is returning,” Muchiri told The Kenya Times, casting doubt on the anticipated reinstatement.
Lagat stepped aside on June 16 amid public outcry over Ojwang’s death on June 8 at the Nairobi Central Police Station, where he was held after arrest by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
The incident sparked widespread protests and intensified scrutiny over police brutality in Kenya.
DIG Lagat Return to Office Reports
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja had earlier told Daily Nation that Lagat had been exonerated.
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“I hope to see him back at the office today because he has been cleared by all the investigations,” Kanja said on Sunday.
While IPOA has yet to publish a comprehensive report, a source familiar with the investigation told Taifa Leo there was “no direct evidence” implicating Lagat in the incident.
In Lagat’s absence, Principal Deputy Patrick Tito has been acting in his role.
As of Monday morning, it remained uncertain whether Lagat had physically resumed office at Vigilance House.
Legal action continues against officers from the Nairobi Central Police Station, including Chief Officer Samson Talaam, who are facing murder charges in connection with Ojwang’s death.
Mixed Reactions on DIG Lagat’s Return
The reports on the return of Lagat have drawn a wave of mixed reactions from political leaders, legal professionals, and social media users across the country.
Supporters of Lagat, welcomed his return, calling him a committed public servant.
“DIG is a dedicated and innocent man. I’m happy that he has been cleared,” said Kileleshwa Member of County Assembly, Robert Alai.
Others expressed more cautious or critical views, especially on social media platform X, where users voiced concerns about justice and accountability.
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“God will guarantee justice. Nobody gets away with anything. We get what we deserve. He will surely get what he deserves,” wrote a user identified as Jack Brian.
Another user, posting under the name Crazy Jay, echoed similar sentiments: “One day, justice will be served, maybe not today or tomorrow, but one day it will.”
Still, some online voices defended Lagat’s return, citing his qualifications and service. “The destined IG should be back in office to continue serving the people of Kenya,” wrote X user Nicholas Munyao.
Additionally, Nelson Havi, former president of the Law Society of Kenya, strongly opposed Lagat’s reinstatement.
“Eliud Lagat should not be allowed to resume duty as DIG,” he said in a post shared widely online.
The Inspector General’s office has not commented publicly on the public response, though Lagat’s return.
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