Former Chief Justice David Maraga has issued a scathing rebuke of President William Ruto and his security leadership over what he termed as deliberate inaction following the torture and murder of teacher Albert Ojwang’ in police custody.
Speaking during a protest and petition delivery at police headquarters in Nairobi, Maraga said the President must take personal responsibility for the escalating cases of extrajudicial killings, with the death of Ojwang’ being the latest and most shocking.
“The buck stops with President Ruto. He should have directed agencies to arrest and prosecute officers involved in the murder,” Maraga declared.
‘Arrest DIG Lagat Now’ – Maraga
The former Chief Justice singled out Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, accusing him of being directly or indirectly involved in the murder of Ojwang’.
“There is prima facie evidence that Mr. Lagat was involved in the illegal arrest, torture, and strangulation of the late Ojwang’. Yet, he remains in office. It’s time to arrest and prosecute him,” said Maraga.
He urged that Lagat, alongside other implicated officers, should have stepped aside pending investigations, emphasizing that continued silence and inaction amount to complicity at the highest level.
June 25 Ultimatum: Maraga Threatens Mass Action
Maraga issued a June 25 deadline for the government to act. Should there be no meaningful progress by then, he vowed to lead peaceful mass protests to demand justice for victims of police brutality.
“If Mr. Lagat and DCI boss Mohamed Amin are still in office by June 25, we’ll take to the streets. Justice must be served.”
Maraga expressed frustration that despite leading the Police Task Force on Reforms, key human rights recommendations remain ignored. He lamented the rising number of abductions, torture, and killings, particularly since 2024.
“President Ruto and his security bosses have shown a dangerous disregard for Kenyan lives. This is a betrayal of public trust,” he added.
Context: Mounting Pressure on Police Over Ojwang’ Death
The pressure is mounting following revelations by the DPP that OCS Samson Taalam tampered with CCTV footage at Central Police Station to cover up evidence related to Ojwang’s death.
