NAIROBI, Kenya – An application seeking to bar Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat from discharging his duties has been withdrawn, with the petitioner citing changed circumstances in the ongoing probe into the death of blogger Albert Ojwang.
The application, which sought conservatory orders restraining Lagat from accessing his office or using any National Police Service (NPS) facility, was withdrawn on Tuesday after the court was told the matter had been overtaken by events.
Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru, appearing for the petitioner, informed the court that they would seek permission to amend the main petition in light of the recent developments.
Justice Diana Kavedza allowed the withdrawal, noting: “The application is withdrawn as prayed. We will mention the matter on the 10th for directions on the main petition.”
Lagat voluntarily stepped aside on June 16 following growing public outcry and calls for accountability in Ojwang’s death while in police custody.
The Deputy IG said the move was made “in good and conscious thought” of his office’s integrity and to allow independent investigations by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
Ojwang’s death has ignited outrage among opposition leaders, civil society groups, and members of the public, many of whom have blamed rogue police officers for the incident.
So far, six individuals have been charged in connection with the blogger’s death, including Central Police Station OCS Samson Talam and Constable James Mukwana.
The case continues to draw national attention, with the father of the deceased, Michael Ojwang, vowing to pursue justice, saying: “You will not have peace for spilling my son’s blood.”
The court will reconvene on July 10 to give further directions on the amended petition.
