The reinstatement of Eliud Lagat as Deputy Inspector General of Police has sparked a serious outcry, with many calling it a clear cover-up and a miscarriage of justice.
Former Law Society of Kenya President Nelson Havi has made his stance very clear, saying Lagat should not be allowed back into office. His comments reflect the frustration of many Kenyans who feel that justice is being pushed aside to protect the powerful.
Lagat had stepped aside after the suspicious death of teacher-blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody. The public expected a full investigation and accountability. Instead, they are now being told that Lagat could return to work before any final findings are shared with the public.
This situation is not just about one officer. It speaks to a deeper rot in the police system, where those in high positions can walk away from serious questions without facing real consequences.
The fact that Lagat might resume duty without a complete and transparent investigation is insulting to the family of Albert Ojwang and to all Kenyans who demand truth.
It raises the question of who is protecting who. Is there a system in place that helps sweep such deaths under the rug?
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) had launched investigations, but now their credibility is also on the line. What good is an oversight body if their investigations are ignored or rushed?
The attempt to bring Lagat back into office without answers only confirms the fear that justice is selective in Kenya. When ordinary citizens are accused, they are thrown behind bars without delay.
But when it’s a senior police officer, the rules seem to change.Civil rights activists have already said that anyone involved in custodial deaths must be taken through a full legal process, not just cleared by administrative decisions.
It’s not enough to reinstate someone because a report was filed behind closed doors. The law must apply to everyone equally.
Letting Lagat return while there are still unanswered questions makes the whole system look like a joke.
Kenya deserves better than this kind of cover-up. The life of Albert Ojwang mattered, and his death should not be forgotten. If the government allows Lagat back without proper justice, then it is sending a dangerous message that police officers can kill and get away with it. That is not accountability. That is impunity, and it must be stopped.
