Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat’s name has remained closely tied to public debate after a Christmas message posted by the Kenya Police Service.
The post showed his photo and wished Kenyans a merry Christmas and a happy 2026, but instead of bringing joy, it reignited discussion about the death of Albert Ojwang, a young blogger who died while in police custody in June 2025. Many people online believe Lagat played a role in Ojwang’s arrest and the events that followed, calling for justice and accountability.
Ojwang had shared posts online that questioned possible corruption linked to Lagat. Soon after, he was arrested at his home in Homa Bay and taken about 400 kilometers to Central Police Station in Nairobi.
While in custody, Ojwang suffered severe beatings and later died. An autopsy confirmed the extent of his injuries. Initially, police claimed he had taken his own life, but this explanation was widely rejected by the public.
Lagat said he would step aside to allow investigations, yet he has remained in his role, which has continued to fuel anger.
The arrest of Ojwang was officially described as a response to posts that allegedly tarnished Lagat’s reputation. His death prompted grief and outrage among his family, friends, and supporters, many of whom believe his passing was a result of foul play.
NPS Inspector General Eliud Lagat. Photo Courtesy: NPS
His funeral in July 2025 drew attention to questions about why Lagat had not faced any legal consequences. Calls for transparency have focused on missing pieces of evidence, including CCTV footage from the police station, which has not been shared publicly.
Beyond this case, Lagat is known as a high-ranking police officer who leads major operations, including efforts against banditry in regions such as Transmara. Despite this, the Ojwang case has overshadowed his other work.
Social media users have repeatedly linked his name to the tragedy, posting messages demanding “Justice for Albert Ojwang” and calling for Lagat’s arrest.
Some note that seeing his photo is a painful reminder of the young blogger’s death and issues of accountability within the police system.
The Christmas post by the police, which featured Lagat, triggered hundreds of responses. Many mentioned Ojwang, noting that he would not be able to celebrate the holidays and expressing sympathy for his widow and child. Others criticized the post for being insensitive and for ignoring ongoing public concerns. People have also drawn parallels to other cases of police-related deaths, suggesting a systemic problem.
Calls for justice have continued for over six months, with hashtags like #JusticeForAlbertOjwang trending online.
Supporters emphasize that no one should be above the law and insist on the release of all evidence, including the CCTV footage.
Even as 2025 comes to a close, public pressure shows no signs of fading, demonstrating how Ojwang’s story has left a lasting impact on Kenyans and their demand for transparency in the police service.
