A section of Nandi County residents has taken to the streets in defense of embattled Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, who recently stepped aside following allegations linking him to the murder of blogger Albert Ojwang.

Chanting “Hana hatia!” (“He is innocent!”), the residents of Kipkaren, Lagat’s rural home, waved twigs and placards as they demanded a fair investigation and an end to what they termed as a campaign to “crucify an innocent man.” 

The locals claim the senior police officer is being framed and insist that his character and record do not reflect the image of a killer.

“Eliud Lagat is not just a top cop; he’s our son, our brother. This is a man who greets everyone—from the boda rider to the village elder—with respect. He has never shown signs of violence. We are shocked and deeply saddened by these allegations,” one elderly resident said during the demonstration.

The protest came just a day after DIG Lagat voluntarily stepped aside to allow investigations into the suspicious death of Ojwang, a former teacher-turned-blogger whose vocal criticism of the police landed him in custody weeks before his body was discovered.

Despite the gravity of the accusations, Lagat’s supporters describe him as a man of peace and humility. They recalled how, years ago, he had shown interest in joining the priesthood, only to abandon the calling due to family obligations—being the only child.

“He was meant to be a priest. He still lives like one. If not for duty, he’d be serving from the pulpit, not the police,” a protester added.

The protests reveal a growing divide among Kenyans over the controversial murder case. While some are calling for heads to roll at the top levels of the police service, others, like the Kipkaren community, are urging the public and authorities to approach the matter with sobriety.

“We want justice for Albert Ojwang, yes—but not by punishing the innocent,” said a local pastor who joined the protests.

“Lagat has served this country with distinction. Let investigations be done without media trials or political pressure.”
Justice in the Spotlight

Lagat’s stepping aside came amid intensifying pressure from both civil society and the political class, following a series of explosive revelations and confessions, including from a junior officer who claimed he was pressured to orchestrate Ojwang’s assault.


The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has promised a thorough and independent probe, as the country watches with bated breath.

But in Kipkaren, the message remains simple and heartfelt: “Let the truth come out, but until then, leave our son alone.”