Hard truths. Bold Insights. Real talk.
Kenya’s opposition has given the Inspector General of Police two weeks to arrest those behind violent attacks on leaders and supporters, warning of escalation to the international community if no action is taken.
The summons comes after the police chief failed to arrest Samburu Governor Lati Lelelit, who has repeatedly ignored committee orders to explain how billions allocated to the county during the 2023/24 financial year were spent.
Police stations are fully equipped law enforcement centers led by an Officer Commanding Station (OCS). They handle serious crimes including robbery, homicide, assault, and sexual offences, and usually manage smaller posts nearby.
The governor said he intends to formally write to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja following an incident earlier on Tuesday, where he claims he was being followed by unknown individuals driving a white vehicle.
Gachagua alleges that the police command has surrendered its authority to politicians close to President William Ruto, enabling gangs to operate with impunity across the country.
During the hearing, Evans Ondieki, representing Mbijiwe’s family, accused three key state agencies, the Office of the Inspector General, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, of failing to provide truthful and consistent updates to the court.
The IG also highlighted that the festive period is often accompanied by higher social interaction, travel, and gatherings, which can lead to increased criminal activity, including alcohol-related offences. He assured that police patrols will be strengthened in towns and urban areas to detect and respond to potential threats.
In a statement signed by Inspector General Douglas Kanja Kirocho, the service said the updates are designed to make the process more accessible and fair, particularly for former members of the National Youth Service (NYS).
Justice Martin Muya issued the directive on Tuesday, giving the two top officials seven days to present Mbijiwe in court—either alive or dead. The ruling followed an urgent petition filed by his mother, Jane Gatwiri, seeking to compel the government to disclose her son’s whereabouts and secure his immediate release.
The IG also warned the public about the consequences of corruption, stressing that anyone involved, either giving or receiving bribes would face legal action.
Murkomen strongly defended police officers deployed during the recent wave of violent protests, saying they had every right to use force where necessary.