Acting IG Masengeli Explains Why Justice Mugambi’s Security was Withdrawn

In a detailed statement issued Monday, Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli addressed the controversial recall of Justice Lawrence Mugambi’s security detail.

Masengeli explained:

Masengeli strongly refuted allegations that the security withdrawal was linked to any recent rulings:

Addressing his non-appearance at a recent court proceeding, Masengeli stated:

He further clarified:

Masengeli explained that ongoing operational meetings prevented his personal attendance, leading him to delegate the Deputy IG of the Kenya Police Service to represent him.

This explanation follows Chief Justice Martha Koome’s criticism of Masengeli’s actions. CJ Koome had pointed out that the security detail was abruptly withdrawn over the weekend, with their firearms confiscated.

She argued that this move contradicted Article 160 of the Constitution, which protects the Judiciary’s independence.