“Eliud Lagat Must Be Jailed,” Says Grieving Father of Late Blogger Albert Ojwang

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Meshack Ojwang’, the father of the late blogger Albert Ojwang’, has called for the immediate arrest of Deputy Inspector General of Police, Eliud Lagat, accusing him of playing a direct role in his son’s death.

Speaking emotionally at his son’s burial ceremony, Meshack Ojwang’ made a passionate demand, stating in Kiswahili, “Eliud Lagat awekwe ndani,” which translates to “Eliud Lagat must be jailed.” 

His remarks come days after reports confirmed that Albert Ojwang’ died from torture inflicted while in custody at Central Police Station, Nairobi.

Albert, who had been arrested for allegedly defaming DIG Lagat on social media, was taken in on June 7 and found dead in a police cell the following day. 

Initially, police reports claimed he had collapsed, but an autopsy later revealed that he had suffered serious injuries—including head trauma and signs of strangulation—suggesting foul play.

Meshack Ojwang’ said he personally handed over his son to police after they showed a warrant, believing he would be safe and legally processed. 

“I gave him to you alive, and you returned him in a coffin. Why did you kill my son?” he asked, addressing his question directly to DIG Lagat during the funeral in Homa Bay County.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has since launched investigations, with three officers already arrested. 

Despite the arrests, public pressure is mounting for Eliud Lagat to step aside or face charges, as he was reportedly both the subject of the blogger’s post and the senior officer overseeing the case.

Kenyans across social media and on the streets have joined in protest, demanding justice for Albert. 

Demonstrations in Nairobi turned chaotic earlier this week, with protestors clashing with police, burning tyres, and chanting slogans against police brutality.

Albert’s death has reignited national debate about police accountability and freedom of expression. 

Civil society groups, legal activists, and even some political leaders have called for a full overhaul of how dissent is handled in the country.

As investigations continue, the grief-stricken father insists that the person who ordered his son’s arrest—and ultimately his death—must not be shielded by rank or title.

 His final message during the burial was firm: “Justice for Albert will only begin when Eliud Lagat is behind bars.”

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