Court declines to block DIG Lagat’s return as IPOA confirms probe still active

In a constitutional petition filed by UK-based activist Eliud Matindi, Justice Chacha Mwita ruled that there would be no interim orders preventing Lagat from carrying out his duties as Deputy Inspector General until the matter was fully heard and determined.

Instead, the court instructed Lagat, the Attorney General, and the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) to respond to the petition by July 23, after which further instructions would be issued.

Matindi had sought interim orders prohibiting Lagat from performing any functions under Section 23 of the National Police Service Act, claiming that his continued presence in office jeopardizes ongoing investigations.

The activist also challenged Patrick Tito's appointment as acting Deputy IG, alleging that Lagat improperly delegated authority via a letter dated June 16, 2025, which he claims violates the law.

In response to recent media reports claiming that Lagat has been cleared and is free to resume work, the IPOA issued a firm rebuttal.

In a statement, Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan emphasized that investigations into Ojwang's death are still ongoing and that no official conclusion has been reached.

"IPOA’s investigation is still active, and therefore the reports that the Authority has exonerated Mr. Lagat are misleading," the statement read.

IPOA further noted that if the findings establish culpability, “appropriate recommendations will be made to hold him to account.”

Lagat had earlier stepped aside to allow for an independent investigation into the alleged torture and death of teacher Albert Ojwang, a case that sparked national outcry and renewed calls for police accountability.

When asked whether Lagat has resumed his duties, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, while inspecting ongoing works at Kasarani Stadium, declined to confirm, stating only that he would issue a comprehensive statement on the state of national security on Tuesday, July 15 at 12 p.m. from Harambee House.