Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat has stepped aside to allow investigations into the death of blogger Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody at Central Police Station.
But what does “stepping aside” actually mean? Many Kenyans feel the truth is being softened, so here is a simple breakdown.
First, Lagat still enjoys all the privileges that come with his senior position. He has not lost anything.
Second, he still holds the same rank and title of Deputy Inspector General. That will only change if investigations prove wrongdoing.
Late Albert Ojwang posses for a photograph during a past event
Third, he is still earning his full salary, estimated at around six hundred thousand shillings every month. He continues to live in a government house and use official transport, all paid for by the public.
Fourth, this move is more like taking a leave from work. He is not going to the office, but nothing major has changed.
Fifth, if investigations find him not guilty, he can easily return to the same job.
That is why many Kenyans are saying this is not justice. It is just a temporary break with full pay.
The frustration has now turned into real anger, especially because of how the government and its top leaders are handling the matter.
Police DIG Eliud Langat during a past media presser. Photo: Tuko Source: Facebook
For instance, President William Ruto today donated two million shillings to Ojwang’s family. While some saw it as a kind act, others felt it looked like hush money instead of justice.
Earlier in the day, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen promised to install CCTV cameras in all police stations. But the station where Ojwang died already had CCTV. Reports say the footage was deleted. So why speak as if cameras are a new idea?
To make things worse, Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi last week told Kenyans to be careful about what they post online. This came shortly after Ojwang died for being outspoken online. Many felt this was a warning, not support.
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen addeesses the media in Nairobi. Photo: The Star Source: X
All this has made people even more suspicious. Instead of showing accountability, the government appears to be defending its own.
Kenyans are not just mourning Ojwang. They are tired of seeing powerful people face no real consequences. This is no longer about one officer stepping aside. It is about a broken system that many feel protects itself more than it protects the people.