Nandi Residents Protest in Support of DIG Eliud Lagat as Tensions Mount Nationally
Residents of Kipkaren, Mosop Constituency in Nandi County, took to the streets on Tuesday to demand the reinstatement of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Kipkoech Lagat, who recently stepped aside to allow investigations into the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang.
The peaceful protest drew a large crowd, comprising youth and the elderly, who chanted solidarity songs and waved twigs in support of Lagat. According to residents, the embattled police boss is a well-known figure in the area, praised for his humility and acts of generosity.
“We are heartbroken by the allegations facing our son. This is a calculated attempt to destroy his reputation. We stand by him,” one protester told reporters.
“He is a God-fearing man. These claims don’t reflect the person we know,” said another demonstrator.
The protestors warned that if Lagat is unfairly targeted, they would consider paralyzing operations in the area in response. The demonstrations in Kipkaren offer a contrasting narrative to the ongoing protests in other parts of the country, particularly in Nairobi and Mombasa.
Contrasting Scenes in Nairobi and Mombasa
In Nairobi, protests demanding Lagat’s arrest turned chaotic, with demonstrators flooding the CBD holding placards and waving Kenyan flags under tight police surveillance. Tensions escalated when security forces lobbed teargas at a group gathered along Kimathi Street, near Nation Media Group offices, where protesters had paused to hold prayers.
Meanwhile, in Mombasa, early signs of protest were observed as groups began assembling in the CBD. Police later arrested several individuals, accusing them of engaging in unlawful demonstrations.
Protests Turn Violent in Nairobi
What began as a peaceful procession in Nairobi morphed into clashes after suspected goons allegedly deployed to disrupt the #JusticeForAlbertOjwang protest descended upon the crowd. Eyewitnesses reported that some of the motorcycles used by the gangs were set ablaze by angry protesters.
Multiple incidents of police brutality and censorship against journalists covering the demonstrations have been reported. Authorities are yet to respond to claims of collusion between the police and the alleged disruptors.
National Division Deepens
The death of Albert Ojwang and the subsequent resignation of DIG Lagat have sparked deep divisions across Kenya. While some citizens demand justice and accountability, others—particularly in Lagat’s home region—have come out in his defense, urging for due process and fair investigations.
