IPOA dismisses claims of exonerating DIG Lagat in blogger Ojwang’s death probe

In a statement issued Monday, IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan clarified that investigations into Ojwang's death, which occurred on June 8, are still ongoing, and that no official decision has been made on Lagat's guilt.

“Preliminary investigations identified some suspects who have since been arraigned in court,” Hassan said. “The Authority’s investigation is still active and therefore the reports that the Authority has exonerated Mr. Lagat are misleading. If the investigations find him culpable, IPOA will make appropriate recommendations to hold him to account.”

Ojwang's death sparked nationwide outrage, prompting protests and demands for accountability from civil society and opposition leaders. Deputy IG Lagat, who faced growing public pressure, voluntarily stepped aside on June 16 to allow for independent investigations.

A court application to prevent Lagat from accessing his office or performing his official duties was withdrawn after the petitioner's lawyer, Ndegwa Njiru, informed the court that the case had been overtaken by events.

Justice Diana Kavedza granted the withdrawal and scheduled a mention of the main petition for July 10.

Meanwhile, at least six police officers have been charged with the murder of Ojwang, including Central Police Station OCS Samson Talam and Constable James Mukwana.