Chaos have erupted in several streets of Nairobi CBD as police disperse protestors demanding justice for Albert Ojwang’.
The protestors also carried placards calling for the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.
A while earlier a number of peaceful demonstrators gathered at various locations, including Moi Avenue, Kenyatta Avenue, and Jeevanjee Gardens.
They chanted slogans and appeared to be peaceful until pockets of protestors begun hurling objects at police who were trying to quell the situation. It then degenerated into a freeforall forcing police to lob teargas at the protesters, while calling for additional reinforcement units.
Overhead a police chopper that was last seen during the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests hovered.
The protests also coincided with the National Assembly’s presentation of the budget statement in the CBD, leading to a heavy police presence.
Calls for resignation of the DIG have gained momentum following a statement by Inspector General Douglas Kanja that confirmed Lagat lodged a complaint against Ojwang, leading to his arrest and subsequent death in police custody.
Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot is among senior politicians who have asked Lagat to step aside to allow free investigations.
“When you are a deputy of an institution, and you make a complaint which is the right thing to do, but unfortunately, the situation gets complicated by the fact that officers who report to him went and picked this particular young man, and he died under very mysterious circumstances.
“Nobody has said you (Lagat) are guilty, but for the country to appreciate and for me, even as your friend, to appreciate and to be clear of my conscience, you step aside until investigations are concluded so that we know what really happened. Otherwise, as it is, no person of good conscience, even if you were to remain and stand firm on the things that are being said,” said Cheruyiot.
Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri has also called for Lagat’s resignation to allow a full and impartial investigation into the matter.
“As more disturbing details emerge surrounding the brutal murder of Albert Ojwang, the only option is for DIG Lagat to step down to allow for a full and impartial investigation. The OCS at Central Police Station, along with other officers on duty that night, holds critical information that could shed light on what truly happened.
“This is not a case that can be brushed aside. If we continue down this path of unchecked impunity, we risk pushing the country toward a dangerous breaking point,” said Karauri.
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