Section of Eldoret Residents Jump to Defense of DIG Lagat

Protests erupted in the Kipkaren area, Eldoret City, on Tuesday as residents took to the streets demanding the return to duty of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.

The embattled police boss stepped aside on Monday to allow investigations into the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang, in which he is a central figure in an ongoing defamation dispute.

Chanting justice songs and waving twigs, the demonstrators—comprising both the elderly and youth—marched through the estate's major and minor roads, expressing support for Lagat, whom they described as a humble and charitable man known for his acts of kindness in the village.

We are deeply saddened by the accusations levelled against our son, Eliud Lagat. This is a malicious attempt to damage his reputation. We believe in his innocence," said one of the protesters while addressing the media.

"This is very sad. I have grown up with him and know him as a God-fearing man who cannot do whatever the accusations are," another one added. 

The demonstrators threatened that should Lagat be held liable for the accusations, then they would paralyse activities in their hometown to protest the same. 

Their protests paint a stark contrast to the demonstrations taking place in Nairobi’s CBD, where protestors are demanding Lagat’s immediate arrest over his alleged involvement in Ojwang’s death.

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