Residents of Kipkaren, Uasin Gishu County, have taken to the streets to defend Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat, whose name has recently been thrust into the spotlight following the death of blogger Albert Ojwang’ in police custody.
Chanting, singing, and waving twigs, the demonstrators marched peacefully, insisting that Lagat, one of their own, is being unfairly targeted by political interests and sensationalist media narratives.
“We’re heartbroken to hear our son being called a killer when we know he is not,” one protester said. “Why accuse a man who’s always been kind, even to street children?”
For many in Kipkaren, Lagat is a figure of integrity, a man who rose through the ranks with professionalism and has long been a role model within the disciplined forces.
The locals believe he is being used as a scapegoat amid the national uproar over police brutality and extrajudicial killings.
A woman who grew up with Lagat expressed her disbelief over the accusations, defending his character and faith.
“It hurts deeply because I know him personally. We were raised together in a Christian environment. Let justice take its course, but we are praying for him as a community,” she said.
She quoted a proverb in their local dialect that loosely translates to “Even if a rat is bad, it still belongs to the family of rats."
Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old Homa Bay teacher and blogger, was arrested after allegations of publishing material that tarnished Lagat’s name.
Lagat filed a defamation complaint, and Ojwang was driven 350 kilometres to Nairobi’s Central Police Station.
On June 16, Lagat stepped aside, vowing to cooperate with the investigation and offering condolences.
President William Ruto called the death “heartbreaking,” promising justice, but public trust in the police is fraying. Lagat’s deputy now holds the reins, and Kenya watches closely.
Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on the latest developments and special offers!
