Defiance of court orders by police bosses a sign of failure in security leadership, says Nairobi Senator Sifuna
Senator Sifuna expressed disappointment at what he termed as an apparent belief among some security leaders that they are above the law.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has criticised the failure of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin to appear in court as ordered, calling it a reflection of systemic disrespect for the rule of law.
Speaking on Thursday, Sifuna noted that this is not the first instance of Kenya’s senior police officers being cited for contempt of court.
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He recalled similar incidents involving Deputy Inspector-General of Police Gilbert Masengeli in September 2024 who was convicted for failing to appear in court more than five times.
"This is not about individuals. It's a systemic problem within our security forces where court orders are disregarded, and accountability is resisted," Sifuna said.
Abductions case
On Wednesday, Justice Bahati Mwamuye warned IG Kanja and DCI boss Amin of potential jail time if they fail to appear for the next court hearing on January 27, 2025.
The two were summoned to explain the abduction of seven people in a case filed by the Law Society of Kenya.
The judge extended the grace period to prioritise the recovery of one abductee still unaccounted for.
However, Senator Sifuna expressed disappointment at what he termed as an apparent belief among some security leaders that they are above the law.
"It doesn't matter who the IG is or who heads the Interior Ministry; the pattern remains. Whether it's Kanja, Amin, or even a future IG, they will still face the same accusations because the system itself is broken," he stated.
The senator said that respecting court orders is fundamental for public trust and accountability.
"Appearing before a magistrate doesn't diminish your stature. We all take the same oath to uphold the Constitution, whether as a senator or as a security chief," Sifuna said.
The lawmaker also criticised the leaders' practice of addressing sensitive issues at public events rather than in court.
Respect the process
"You don't tell us at funerals or press conferences that you don't know where these people are. Go to court, respect the process, and say it before the judge," Sifuna said.
The case stems from a December 2024 order by Justice Diana Kavedza requiring Kanja and Amin to produce six abducted suspects.
Despite being given until December 3, 2024 to comply, the police leaders failed to act, prompting the current proceedings.
Sifuna reiterated the importance of personal responsibility for police actions.
"This ruling of personal accountability is key. Leaders in security forces must respect the law and be accountable to the people," he said.
