The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has firmly refuted claims that it has cleared Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat in connection with the controversial death of Albert Ojwang a teacher and blogger who died in police custody last month.
In a sharply worded statement, IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan emphasized that the matter is still under active investigation and that no individual has been absolved of responsibility at this stage.
“The reports suggesting that IPOA has exonerated Mr. Lagat are not only premature but also misleading,” Hassan said. “Our investigation remains ongoing, and if evidence links him to the incident, appropriate action will follow.”
The probe, which was officially launched on June 8, 2025, has already led to the arraignment of several suspects identified during initial inquiries. IPOA stressed that it is committed to ensuring justice for Ojwang’s family and the public, and reiterated that its investigations are being conducted independently, without political or institutional interference.
“The Authority is guided solely by the Constitution and the pursuit of truth,” Hassan added.
Meanwhile, political temperatures rose over remarks made by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua while addressing Kenyans in the United States. Gachagua had claimed that ODM leader Raila Odinga no longer commands influence in key regions such as Kisii, Ukambani, and parts of Western Kenya.
His comments sparked sharp criticism from Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Minority Whip Silvanus Osoro, who accused him of stoking division while abroad.
“Let Gachagua speak about national issues right here at home instead of using foreign platforms to insult leaders,” Wandayi said during a prayer meeting in Nyatike Sub-County.
Osoro was even more direct, challenging the former deputy president to repeat his remarks on Raila’s political irrelevance within Raila’s strongholds.
“Don’t speak about Raila while hiding in America,” Osoro said. “Say those things in Kisii, Kisumu, Migori, or Mombasa. Raila Odinga is not someone you joke about lightly.”
