By Joseph Mutua Ndonga
The controversy surrounding Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli’s alleged failure to comply with a court order has captured widespread media attention. Public opinion is divided on whether Masengeli’s actions amount to contempt of court, following his repeated absence from court proceedings.
The issue arose after Masengeli missed six court appearances, sending senior legal officers from the National Police Service (NPS) in his place, including the Deputy IG on one occasion.
However, the presiding judge insisted on Masengeli’s personal presence, dismissing the explanations provided by his representatives.
The court is handling a case involving the abduction of two brothers and their friend in Kitengela, allegedly by individuals believed to be police officers, though the police have denied involvement.
Judge Lawrence Mugambi, overseeing the case, sentenced Masengeli to six months in prison but granted him a seven-day window to present himself in court, allowing him to avoid imprisonment if he complies. Masengeli has since filed an appeal.
Tensions escalated when Judge Mugambi reported that his security detail, including his bodyguard and police driver, had been withdrawn. This sparked outrage within judicial circles.
In response, Masengeli clarified that only the President, Deputy President, and former Presidents are legally entitled to personal security, though he assured the judge that his security would be maintained.
He explained that the officers were recalled for training and replaced by others who had already completed it.
Meanwhile, some critics of President William Ruto have suggested that he may be involved in Masengeli’s refusal to follow the court order, though no evidence has been presented to support these claims.
Under Kenyan law, the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) is responsible for appointing police officers.
existing protocols indicate that following the resignation of former IG Japheth Koome, the NPSC recommended Masengeli for the acting IG position, and the President officially appointed him.
The writer is social commentator based in Nairobi.
