Amnesty International Kenya has called on Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat to step aside as investigations into the death of Albert Ojwang continue. The human rights group emphasized that this appeal is not an accusation of guilt but a call for moral leadership and institutional integrity.
Speaking during a live TV interview on Monday, June 16, Amnesty Executive Director Irungu Houghton stated that Lagat’s continued stay in office undermines public confidence in the police service. “He should step down not because he is guilty, but because he respects the reputation of national service,” said Irungu. “Public service must transcend personal ego to protect the integrity of the institution.”
Ojwang, who had been arrested from his home in Homa Bay over an alleged defamation case filed by Lagat, died while in police custody. His death has sparked national outrage, with both civil society and religious leaders demanding accountability and transparency.
Irungu pointed out that Lagat’s role as the complainant in the case and his subsequent public commentary alongside the Inspector General compromised the objectivity of the investigation. “It was patently wrong for him to comment on this case. That hurt the image of the police,” he said, citing Chapter Six of the Kenyan Constitution, which speaks to leadership and integrity.
The Kenya Coalition of Church Alliances and Ministries (KCCM) also joined the growing chorus demanding that all officers linked to the case step down. “Anybody and everybody involved should step down. If they are later found not guilty, no problem—they will be reinstated,” said KCCM Vice Chair Stephen Mutua on Sunday, June 15.
“We are deeply troubled by this incident, which raises serious questions about the moral integrity of some of our police officers and the broader issue of accountability within the National Police Service,” added Mutua.
As pressure mounts, Lagat has yet to respond publicly to calls for his resignation. Civil society groups insist that stepping aside is necessary to ensure a fair and independent investigation into the tragic death of Albert Ojwang.
