IG Masengeli Denies Intimidating Justice Mugambi, Says His Security Was Recalled For Training

• Acting Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli denied claims that the withdrawal of Justice Lawrence Mugambi's security was intended to intimidate the Judiciary
• Masengeli clarified that the recall of the officers was for routine VIP security training, with no malicious intent
• He stressed his independent authority under Article 245 (4) (c) of the Constitution, noting police assignments are based on threat assessments
• Masengeli explained that only certain officials, like the president and deputy president, are legally entitled to personal security

Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Nairobi - Acting Inspector General (IG) of Police Gilbert Masengeli has denied accusations that the withdrawal of security for Justice Lawrence Mugambi was intended to intimidate the Judiciary.

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC), headed by Chief Justice Martha Koome, condemned the actions of the National Police Service.

JSC suggested that the police were targeting the Judiciary for its rulings, raising concerns about judges' intimidation.

In a detailed statement released late Monday, September 16, Masengeli clarified that the recall of Justice Mugambi's security detail was for routine training and had no malicious intent.

Masengeli explained that the decision to recall Mugambi's two security officers was purely administrative.

He claimed measures had been taken to ensure that Justice Mugambi’s security was never compromised during the time.

"The two officers, being general duty officers, were recalled for purposes of attending VIP security courses. We are aware that suitable arrangements were made to ensure that Hon. Mugambi's security was always assured," Masengeli stated.

How does Masengeli operate

Masengeli stressed that, under Article 245 (4) (c) of the Constitution, he operates independently and is not subject to external direction regarding the assignment of police officers.

He reiterated that the police prioritise the safety of all Kenyans, including judges, based on the level of threat they face, not by their status alone.

Masengeli observed that no Kenyan, aside from the president, deputy president, and former presidents, is legally entitled to personal security.

However, Masengeli explained that individuals in high-profile roles, including judges, are often assigned security based on risk assessments conducted by the NPS.

"Other persons are provided with personal security based on the criteria set out above and, in the Policies, developed by the NPS and as may be determined by the IG from time to time. The tenure of Judges does not, by that fact alone, include personal security as a matter of law.

In line with the VIP Policy, VIPs are protected by Specialised Units including Security of Government. Buildings, VIP Protection Unit which in the case of the Judiciary is christened the Judiciary Police Unit," added the IG.

Why did activists disrupt court session over Masengeli

Earlier, drama ensued at a city court when activists disrupted the hearing of a case in which the IG had been summoned to appear in court to explain the whereabouts of three missing persons.

Charles Sakei and Julius Kamau were dragged out of court by guards, who had a hard time containing them.

Justice Mugambi issued a warning should the acting IG fail to comply with the summons and address questions regarding the whereabouts of the three abducted individuals.

Proofreading by Otukho Jackson, a multimedia journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke