Acting IG Gilbert Masengeli was sentenced to six months in prison for contempt of court after failing to respond to six summons regarding the whereabouts of three men abducted in
Nairobi, Kenya – The security detail of High Court Judge Lawrence Mugambi has been withdrawn days after he sentenced Acting Inspector General of Police, Gilbert Masengeli, to six months in prison for contempt of court.
The move has drawn widespread criticism, including from Chief Justice Martha Koome, who condemned the actions of the National Police Service (NPS).
Masengeli, despite the court’s ruling, has continued to serve in his capacity as acting police chief, raising concerns over the enforcement of judicial decisions. He was sentenced after failing to respond to six court summons related to the disappearance of three men abducted in Kitengela.
Chief Justice Koome Condemns Security Withdrawal
Chief Justice Koome, in a statement seen by REPORT AFRIQUE, decried the withdrawal of Judge Mugambi’s security as an assault on judicial independence and the rule of law.
“The disarming and withdrawal of security for Justice Lawrence Mugambi is a deliberate and punitive measure. This act represents a direct attack on judicial independence, a fundamental principle enshrined in our Constitution,” said Koome.
She emphasized that judges must be allowed to carry out their duties without fear of retribution, adding that any variation in the security of a sitting judge, particularly in retaliation for a lawful court decision, is deeply concerning.
Koome called on the NPS to immediately reinstate Judge Mugambi’s security and ensure that court orders are respected and enforced.
Background on Masengeli’s Sentencing
Acting IG Gilbert Masengeli was sentenced to six months in prison for contempt of court after failing to respond to six summons regarding the whereabouts of three men abducted in Kitengela. The men, reportedly taken by armed individuals in a white Subaru, had participated in protests against the Finance Bill 2024.
The court case, which was brought forward by Amnesty International and the Law Society of Kenya, demanded answers on the men’s disappearance, yet Masengeli failed to respond to multiple court orders.
Despite his sentencing, Masengeli continues to hold his position as calls for his surrender grow. Meanwhile, an appeal has been filed against the ruling and is pending a hearing.
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