On January 9, 2025, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Mohammed Amin faced serious allegations.
Both leaders have repeatedly defied court orders related to the abduction of several individuals.
This ongoing defiance raises significant concerns about accountability within Kenya’s security forces.
The High Court summoned both Kanja and Amin to explain the whereabouts of three men believed to have been police officers in the Kitengela abduction.
Despite multiple court orders, neither leader has appeared in court to provide necessary explanations. This disregard for judicial authority has sparked outrage among human rights advocates and the general public.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi has stressed the need for police accountability. He stated that the lives of these three Kenyans are at stake, and it is the police’s responsibility to protect them. The judge expressed frustration over Kanja and Amin’s lack of compliance, noting that their failure to appear in court shows a blatant disregard for the rule of law.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has taken a strong stance on this issue. They have called for tougher legal action against Kanja and Amin if they continue to ignore court summons.
LSK President Faith Odhiambo condemned their actions, highlighting that such defiance sets a dangerous precedent for law enforcement officers across the country.
Moreover, this situation is complicated by the recent sentencing of Acting Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli.
Authorities sentenced him to six months in prison for contempt of court after he failed to comply with orders regarding the same abduction cases. His case exemplifies a troubling trend among senior security officials who evade accountability.
Critics argue that this culture of impunity within the police force undermines public trust in law enforcement. Many citizens feel unsafe knowing that those tasked with protecting them may be involved in unlawful activities such as abductions. Therefore, the LSK urges citizens to demand accountability from their leaders and insist on adherence to judicial directives.
In response to these developments, various political leaders have weighed in. Senator Edwin Sifuna publicly condemned the government for its handling of security issues. He stated that the administration must take responsibility for rising cases of enforced disappearances and ensure justice is served.
As families continue searching for their missing loved ones, pressure on Kanja and Amin intensifies. Human rights organisations are calling for immediate investigations into these abductions and greater transparency from law enforcement agencies. The ongoing situation highlights a critical need for reforms within Kenya’s security sector.
IG Kanja and DCI Amin’s defiance raises serious questions about governance and respect for human rights in Kenya. As public outcry grows, it remains essential for authorities to respond effectively and uphold the rule of law. The future of accountability within Kenya’s police force hangs in the balance as these events unfold.
