COURT CLEARS PATH FOR DIG LAGAT TO RESUME OFFICE

The High Court has declined to block Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat from resuming office, dealing a blow to a petition filed by activist Eliud Matindi. Justice Chacha Mwita ruled on Monday July 14, 2025, that Lagat is free to return to his duties as investigations into his alleged involvement in the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang continue.
The judge instead gave Lagat until July 23, 2025, to respond to the legal challenge, which argues that the senior police officer should remain out of office until the case is concluded. Matindi’s petition contends that Lagat’s voluntary decision to step aside following public outcry over Ojwang’s death amounted to a temporary resignation, and his return would undermine ongoing accountability efforts.
Lagat stepped aside on June 16, 2025 shortly after Ojwang died in police custody on June 8. Ojwang had been arrested following a defamation complaint allegedly linked to a senior government official. His mysterious death drew sharp public criticism and triggered investigations by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Internal Affairs Unit of the National Police Service.
Both agencies have reportedly cleared Lagat of direct involvement, a position echoed by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, who said Lagat was expected to resume his duties as of July 14, 2025. However, confusion surrounds his return after police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said on Monday morning that the National Police Service had not officially confirmed Lagat’s reinstatement.
The court's directive now opens the door for Lagat’s full return, even as legal and public scrutiny over Ojwang’s death continues. The case will be mentioned again later this month, following the expected submission of Lagat’s response.