In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…
- Acting IG Gilbert Masengeli was convicted of contempt of court for failing to honor summons, with sentencing set for Friday.
- Masengeli is accused of ignoring orders to explain the disappearance of three individuals amid protests, despite his claims of being on official duty.
Acting Inspector General of Police, Gilbert Masengeli, has been found guilty of contempt of court after failing to comply with court summons.
On Monday, Justice Lawrence Mugambi delivered the verdict, emphasizing that state officers entrusted with public responsibilities, like the acting IG, must adhere to the constitution.
“It is the responsibility of the court to restore public confidence in the judiciary. The IG could be removed from office if it is proven that he undermines the constitution,” stated Justice Mugambi, adding that Masengeli’s actions had placed the court in a difficult position.
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Masengeli is set to be sentenced on Friday. During the proceedings, state counsel representing him argued that the acting IG was occupied with operational duties in Wajir and was unable to appear in court.
This came despite Masengeli’s earlier request for an extension, citing official duties in Mombasa.
Lawyer Nelson Havi, representing the petitioners, challenged the court to act on the acting IG’s repeated disregard for the summons.
Havi questioned how long the court would allow Masengeli to send his deputy in his place. He called for Masengeli’s conviction and removal from office, pointing to his defiance.
“At the end of this, we will ask the court to convict the acting IG for contempt and impose the highest legal consequence,” Havi said, further criticizing Masengeli’s apparent disregard for public duty by attending a concert during a time of national concern.
Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo also weighed in, supporting Havi’s stance. She argued that Masengeli’s reasons for his absence did not hold water.
“The acting IG was at the coast last week taking pictures and chatting instead of obeying court orders,” she remarked.
Masengeli is expected to clarify the whereabouts of Jamil Longton, his brother Aslam Longton, and activist Bob Njagi, who were reportedly abducted by individuals believed to be police officers on August 19, 2024, during the Gen Z protests.