Governor Barasa Demands Resignation of Deputy IG Lagat Over Ojwang Death Probe
He warned that allowing individuals under investigation to remain within the system risks undermining public trust in the process.
Blogger and teacher Late Albert Ojwang'. Photo/Capital FM.
By Victor Vosoro
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has called for the immediate resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, insisting that his continued presence in office could compromise the ongoing investigation into the death of 31-year-old Albert Ojwang.
Speaking during International Widows’ Day celebrations at the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) in Butere constituency, Governor Barasa stated that merely stepping aside was not enough and demanded that Lagat and others implicated in the case vacate their positions entirely.
“Stepping aside is not enough. We want Lagat and all others who have been mentioned to resign completely and allow investigative agencies to do their job without interference,” Barasa declared.
Ojwang’s tragic death has sparked public outcry and renewed criticism of police conduct. According to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), Ojwang was arrested in Homa Bay in connection with a complaint reportedly initiated by Lagat. He later died under unclear circumstances, prompting protests and demands for justice.
Barasa emphasized that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. He warned that allowing individuals under investigation to remain within the system risks undermining public trust in the process.
“We condemn police brutality. There must be reforms. There should be no sacred cows in the police service. Everyone must take responsibility for their actions,” Barasa said.
He expressed concern that even without access to his office, Lagat could still influence the investigation.
“By merely stepping aside, he remains within reach of the system. That alone threatens the credibility of the investigation,” he added.
Barasa also paid tribute to Ojwang’s widow, Mama Nevinina Onyango, describing her late husband as an “innocent soul” with a young family whose life was cut short under unjust circumstances.
“As a nation, we must stand with Mama Nevinina. Her husband was a 31-year-old with so much ahead of him. Justice must prevail,” the governor said.
The governor’s remarks add to growing national pressure on the police service amid increasing calls for accountability, reform, and justice for victims of police violence. Protests continue to mount, with youth-led groups declaring June 25 a symbolic day of remembrance for lives lost during government crackdowns.
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