Crowds took to the streets of Nairobi’s Central Business District on Thursday, demanding the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat. The protest was sparked by the recent death of Albert Ojwang, a teacher and blogger who died shortly after being arrested following a social media post that allegedly criticized Lagat.
The protests coincided with the reading of the 2025/26 National Budget by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi. Demonstrators linked the two events by chanting, “No justice, no budget,” expressing frustration not only at Ojwang’s death but also at broader issues of accountability within government institutions.
Chants of “Lagat must go” echoed through the city as protestors called for immediate action against the senior police official. Many held placards demanding justice for Ojwang, whose sudden death has raised serious questions about police conduct and abuse of power.
Ojwang was arrested at his home in Homa Bay and transported to Nairobi’s Central Police Station, where he later died. Before his arrest, he had shared a social media post that reportedly accused DIG Lagat of misconduct. Following the incident, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja confirmed that the arrest was carried out based on a complaint filed by Lagat himself.
The incident has drawn criticism from both the public and political leaders. A growing number of voices are calling for Lagat to step aside as investigations continue. The pressure intensified after officials from the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations were summoned to appear before the Senate to explain the circumstances leading to Ojwang’s death.
By Lucky Anyanje