Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud K. Lagat has officially stepped aside to allow for independent investigations into the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang.
In a statement released on Monday, Lagat said the decision was made in “good and conscious thought” of his responsibilities and the ongoing public concern surrounding the case.
He emphasized that he would not interfere with the investigations and pledged to fully support the inquiry.
“In view of the ongoing investigations on the unfortunate incident of the death of Mr. Albert Ojwang, I have today opted to step aside from the office, pending completion of investigations,” Lagat stated.
The deputy inspector general’s decision follows mounting pressure from civil society groups and human rights defenders who have demanded transparency and accountability in the case.
“I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me. I offer immense condolences to the family of Mr. Albert Ojwang for their great loss,” he said.
His move comes just hours after former Chief Justice David Maraga called for the arrests of the IG Douglas Kanja, DIG Eliud Lagat, the Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin, and all who are associated with the death of Albert Ojwang.
Maraga demanded that the arrests and prosecution be done before June 25 this year.