Willis Otieno terms Lagat’s stepping aside as taxpayer-funded holiday
By Mabonga Makhanu, June 16, 2025Lawyer and former Safina party deputy presidential running mate Willis Otieno has criticised Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat’s decision to step aside, terming it a cosmetic gesture aimed at calming public outrage rather than advancing accountability.
In a statement shared on his X account on Monday, June 16, 2025, Otieno described Lagat’s move as a “taxpayer-funded holiday”, arguing that the DIG continues to enjoy all the benefits and privileges of his office despite stepping aside.
According to Otieno, Lagat still retains his full uniform, rank, and monthly salary, fully funded by public resources.
He further pointed out that the embattled police boss remains entitled to state perks such as official government vehicles with fuel, a driver, an armed escort, and continued access to the State House and other government facilities.
“What ‘stepping aside’ really means for DIG ” Eliud Lagat: Still a DIG, he keeps his rank and uniform. Still on full, Over Ksh600K monthly, funded by you, the taxpayer. Still enjoying all privileges — State House, armed escort, GOK fuel and driver. No real consequence; it’s basically a paid vacation. Could return as if nothing happened if the system clears him.” Willis Otieno said.
Otieno cautioned that there are no real consequences attached to the move, suggesting that Lagat could easily return to office once the public outcry fades, should the system clear him.
He termed the development as a ceremonial tactic designed to pacify a furious nation, not a genuine effort to deliver justice.
Lagat stepping aside
This comes after Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat officially stepped aside from his position to allow for an impartial investigation into the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang, following days of mounting public pressure.
Lagat’s decision came after sustained uproar from the public and civil society groups, many of whom had called for his resignation to ensure transparency and accountability in the ongoing investigations. The announcement was made through a formal statement issued by his office on Monday, June 16, 2025.
In his statement, Lagat cited his responsibilities and the ongoing nature of the investigations as reasons for temporarily vacating his role. He affirmed that his deputy will now take over the functions of the office until the investigations are completed.
He also pledged to support the inquiry process and expressed condolences to the family of the deceased.
“In the good and conscious thought of my role and responsibilities as the Deputy Inspector General of Kenya Police Service and in view of the ongoing investigations into the unfortunate incident of the death of Mr Albert Ojwang, I have today opted to step aside from the office of the Deputy Inspector General – Kenya Police Service pending completion of investigations. The functions of the office will henceforth be performed by my deputy until completion of the investigations.” Said DIG in a statement
“I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations of the unfortunate incident. I offer immense condolences to the family of Mr Albert Ojwang for their great loss.” He continued.