- Acting Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli denied allegations that the removal of Justice Mugambi's security was aimed at threatening the court
- Masengeli explained that the removal of the officers is for the normal training of protection and security of VIPs, without malicious intent.
- He emphasized his independent powers under Article 245 (4) (c) of the Constitution, noting that police work is based on threat assessments
- Masengeli explained that only some leaders, such as the President and Deputy President, are entitled to personal security by law
Nairobi – Acting Inspector General (IG) of Police Gilbert Masengeli has denied allegations that the security removal of Justice Lawrence Mugambi was intended to threaten the judiciary.
Source: Twitter
The Judicial Services Commission (JSC), headed by the Chief Justice Martha Koomecriticized the actions of the National Police Service.
The JSC suggested that the police were targeting the judiciary for its decision, raising concerns about intimidation of judges.
In his detailed statement released on Monday, September 16, Masengeli clarified that the removal of Justice Mugambi's security detail was for routine training and there was no malicious intent.
Masengeli explained that the decision to remove Mugambi's two security officers was purely administrative.
He claimed that measures have been taken to ensure that Justice Mugambi's security is never compromised during that time.
“The two officers, being general duty officers, were called for the purpose of attending VIP security courses. We are aware that proper arrangements were made to ensure the security of Hon. Mugambi is ensured at all times,” Masengeli said.
How does Masengeli carry out his activities
Masengeli emphasized that, under Article 245 (4) (c) of the Constitution, he performs his duties independently and is not subject to external instructions regarding the duties of police officers.
He reiterated that the police prioritize the safety of all Kenyans, including judges, based on the level of threat they face, and not on their status alone.
Masengeli felt that no Kenyan, apart from the President, Deputy President, and former presidents, is legally entitled to personal security.
However, Masengeli explained that individuals in high positions, including judges, are often given protection based on risk assessments conducted by the NPS.
“Other persons are granted personal security based on the criteria set forth above and, in the Policy, formulated by the NPS and as may be determined by the IG from time to time. The tenure of the Judges is not done, for that fact alone,” includes personal safety as a matter of law.
In line with the VIP Policy, VIP is protected by Special Units including Government Security. Buildings, the VIP Protection Unit which in terms of the Court is called the Judicial Police Unit,” added IG.
Why activists disrupted the court session about Masengeli
Earlier, a dramatic situation occurred in the city court when activists disrupted the hearing of a case in which the IG was called to appear in court to explain the whereabouts of three missing persons.
Charles Sakei and Julius Kamau were escorted out of the court by security guards, who had a hard time restraining them.
Justice Mugambi issued a warning if the acting IG fails to heed the summons and address inquiries about the whereabouts of the three abducted persons.
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