Acting IG Masengeli in a previous event
For a third time, Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli today failed to appear in court. The court was informed that Masengeli was away attending a workshop in Mombasa.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi expressed displeasure with the repeated failure by Masengeli to appear in court. “The court must assert its authority in maintaining the rule of law,” Mugambi said. “This power must be exercised with utmost care.”
Masengeli was due to appear before the court to explain the disappearance of three people in Kitengela. Through their lawyers, they said he was attending to official duty, but the Law Society of Kenya represented by Faith Odhiambo opposed this.
The IG shows no intention to honor court orders,” Odhiambo said incisively. “His official duties cannot be more important than human lives.” She faulted Masengeli for failing to adduce evidence of his official commitments. “We demand a warrant of arrest,” Odhiambo added. “He has disrespected the court and ignored the Bill of Rights.
The relatives of the missing are concerned and frustrated. Odhiambo emphasized that, “They have not seen or heard anything about their loved ones. They are dismayed.”
Judge Mugambi agreed with Odhiambo’s issue, where rights should be respected. “Every person is entitled to rights and fundamental freedoms,” he stated. “It is the state’s duty to protect those rights.”
The Judge warned, “This country operates under the rule of law, not at the whims of individuals.” He warned further, “The court has teeth and can bite. Those who deliberately ignore court orders must face consequences.”
Despite all this, Mugambi gave Masengeli a chance to defend himself. “We must ensure justice while allowing room for defense,” he said.
Now, the court awaits Masengeli’s explanation. Its course of action will depend on how he explains and behaves himself. Dispensation of justice and obedience to court orders remain a key issue.
