If you don’t want scrutiny, do not hold public office- Ndindi Nyoro

Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro/SCREENGRAB

Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has condemned the growing trend of intimidating citizens who criticise public officials, saying those who hold public office must be prepared to face public scrutiny.

Speaking in the wake of the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang’ while in police custody, Nyoro asserted that office holders must develop the capacity to accept criticism or consider stepping down.

“When young Kenyans talk about a certain office held by an individual, they are talking about it because you are the one holding that office,” Nyoro stated. “If you have a thin skin and can’t take it, just exit the office.”

Ojwang’ was arrested in Homa Bay last Friday for allegedly posting critical content on social media about Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.

He was transported to Nairobi and held at the Central Police Station, where he later died under circumstances that have drawn national condemnation and triggered demands for accountability.

Nyoro emphasised that leaders, whether elected or appointed, must recognise that their roles are subject to public oversight.

“Leaders who do not want their work subjected to public discussion have a clear choice—retreat into being private citizens,” the MP said. “The rights of Kenyans are clearly outlined in our Constitution. If you do not want Kenyans to write about you or question you, then you have no business being in public office.”

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja confirmed that Ojwang’ was arrested following a complaint by Lagat, who alleged that his name was being “tarnished” online.

Kanja further disclosed that several senior officers at the Central Police Station have been interdicted, pending investigations into the incident.

“The reason why the late Albert Ojwang was arrested… is because there was a complaint launched by the DIG about his name being tarnished,” Kanja said.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has since initiated a formal investigation into Ojwang’s death, vowing to uncover the truth and ensure accountability.

The incident has sparked a wave of protests and online campaigns calling for justice, with human rights groups, political leaders, and members of the public demanding the immediate resignation and prosecution of Lagat.