Wamuzi News Ke
Human rights activists and opposition figures have accused President William Ruto of orchestrating a cover-up in the case of political blogger Albert Ojwang, whose death in Nairobi Central Police Station has triggered national outrage.
Ojwang, a 31‑year‑old schoolteacher and vocal critic of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat, was arrested on June 7 for allegedly defaming the senior police officer on social media. Two days later, he was found unconscious in his cell and pronounced dead at Mbagathi Hospital. Authorities initially attributed the death to suicide—but an autopsy shattered that narrative, confirming assault as the cause.
Six Charged, DIG Lagat Left Untouchable
Prosecutors have filed murder charges against six individuals, including three police officers—among them the Central Station commander, Samson Talaam—asserting that Ojwang died from sustained beatings. One constable, James Mukhwana, has testified that he acted on “an order from above” to use force during Ojwang’s detention.
Despite these arrests, DIG Eliud Lagat remains uncharged. Human rights groups have petitioned the High Court to delay ongoing prosecutions until Lagat is listed as a suspect, accusing Ruto’s administration and the police oversight body of shielding him from accountability.
Activists Demand Justice: “Main Suspect” Left Free
Legal activists led by Lawyer Lempaa Suyinka and Prof. Fredrick Ong’ola argue that excluding Lagat from the charges is both discriminatory and obstructive to justice. Their petition calls for:
- A conservatory court order halting prosecution of current suspects until Lagat is formally charged.
- A suspension of Lagat from office pending the inquiry’s outcome.
They describe the initial suicide claim as part of a “cruel scheme” orchestrated by senior officials—including Ruto—to cover up Lagat’s alleged role in Ojwang’s death.
Widespread Protests and Public Condemnation
Ojwang’s death has rekindled nationwide protests reminiscent of last year’s anti-tax demonstrations. Eyewitnesses recount tear‑gas, burning vehicles, and mass rallies demanding police reform and government accountability.
President Ruto has described the blogger’s death as “heartbreaking and unacceptable,” pledging full cooperation with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and ordering investigations after dismissing the initial suicide claim.
The Political Stakes: Impunity Versus Reform
Critics argue that without transparent, top-down accountability, Kenya’s culture of police impunity will persist. Ojwang’s widow, Nevnine Onyango, has demanded answers and justice, underscoring how this case deepens public distrust in law enforcement.
Now, all eyes are on the High Court’s ruling on the petition to include DIG Lagat in the murder charges. The outcome could determine whether Kenya reinforces its legal standards—or continues on a path of institutional immunity.
