Garissa Governor Nathif Jama./STEPHEN ASTARIKO
Health CS Aden Duale has a word with Garissa Governor Nathif
Jama./STEPHEN ASATRIKOHealth Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has called for restraint and respect for due process.
His sentiments come in the wake of growing public pressure on Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat to resign, following the death of Albert Ojwang while in police custody at Nairobi’s Central Police Station.
Speaking in Garissa on Friday during the launch of the county’s digital health system, Duale emphasized that no Kenyan—regardless of status or public opinion, should be denied fair administrative justice.
“There is a law called fair administrative justice,” said Duale. “You cannot resort to mob justice. Every Kenyan deserves due process.”
His remarks came in support of Garissa Senator Abdul Haji, who has faced backlash over comments he made in the Senate regarding perceived inconsistencies in how police brutality cases are handled.
Haji had questioned why some incidents—like Ojwang’s death—sparked national uproar and calls for special sittings in Parliament, while others, such as the killing of 40 fishermen in Turkana as raised by his counterpart from the region, received little attention.
His comments ignited sharp debate online, with critics accusing him of defending police impunity. Supporters, however, praised him for advocating fairness and consistency in addressing such cases.
Duale backed Haji’s stance, urging leaders to make principled decisions rather than chase popularity.
“Senator Haji, I am 100% with you on this,” said Duale.
“Leadership is not about being popular—it’s about standing up for what’s right. If you’re going to be praised, let it be because you defended the people you represent.”
Haji, also speaking at the event, defended his right to express unpopular opinions, saying that freedom of speech must allow space for all voices—especially in matters of national importance.
“If people are free to say popular things, then those of us who have contrary views should also be heard,” he said.
He questioned the rush to demand DIG Lagat’s resignation before investigations are complete.
“What’s wrong with saying let the investigation conclude first? If he's found guilty, then he should step aside,” said Haji.
The senator also criticised sections of the media, accusing them of favouring sensational or popular narratives at the expense of balanced reporting.
“Statements based on facts are often overlooked in favour of popular sentiments,” he said. “As politicians, we won't always agree. That’s part of democracy.”
The conversation around the DIG’s future and broader issues of police accountability continues to dominate national debate, with leaders like Duale and Haji urging a more measured, lawful approach.
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