Ruto warns against rift between police and Judiciary

From left; Acting IG Gilbert Masengeli, President William Ruto and Chief Justice Martha Koome. [File, Standard]

President William Ruto has urged independent institutions to collaborate for the public good, following a recent dispute between the National Police Service and the Judiciary.

Speaking during the launch of police reforms on Wednesday, Ruto said collaboration is key to serving Kenyans effectively.

"I am fully aware that both the National Police Service and the Judiciary are independent entities, but ultimately, we serve one master—the people of Kenya," said Ruto. "We must ensure that we work together, not for the interests of individuals, but for the collective good of the Kenyan people."

The president also underscored the need for institutions to uphold democracy, which he said is anchored in the rule of law.

Ruto's remarks follow a confrontation between Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli and the Judiciary.

Masengeli was sentenced to six months in jail for contempt of court after failing to appear in court seven times. He was summoned to provide information on the disappearance of three individuals—Bob Njagi and siblings Jamil and Aslam Longton—who went missing in Kitengela on August 19.

After the ruling, the security detail assigned to Justice Lawrence Mugambi, who presided over the case, was withdrawn. Chief Justice Martha Koome condemned the move, calling it a violation of constitutional principles.

"In light of this ruling, a disturbing action was taken by the National Police Service over the weekend; the security detail assigned to Justice Mugambi was disarmed and withdrawn," said Koome.

Masengeli responded by saying that no Kenyan, apart from the President, Deputy President, and retired President, is entitled to personal security. "The tenure of judges does not, by that fact alone, include personal security as a matter of law," he said, adding that VIP protection is managed by specialised units like the Judiciary Police Unit.