Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli has once again defied a court summons, marking the seventh consecutive instance of his no-show. This recurring absence has intensified the scrutiny surrounding Masengeli’s role in the recent abduction of three men in Kitengela, an issue that has become a focal point of public and legal concern.
The latest court session, held on Monday, saw State Counsel representing Masengeli inform the court that the Acting IG is currently engaged in operational activities in Wajir. According to the counsel, this ongoing duty prevents Masengeli from appearing in court to address the serious allegations leveled against him. This explanation has done little to quell the mounting frustration among the petitioners and their legal representatives.
The case revolves around the alleged abduction of three individuals—Jamil Longton, his brother Aslam Longton, and activist Bob Njagi—who were reportedly taken into custody by individuals believed to be police officers on August 19, 2024. The abduction occurred amid widespread Gen Z protests, raising concerns about police conduct and the broader implications for human rights in Kenya.
Despite Masengeli’s request for an extension to appear on Monday, citing official duties in Mombasa, the court has seen repeated instances of his absence. This pattern of non-compliance has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters. Lawyer Nelson Havi, representing the petitioners, has raised pointed questions about the extent to which the court will tolerate such defiance. Havi has proposed that, due to Masengeli’s brazen disregard for court orders, he should be held in contempt of court and subsequently removed from office.
“At the end of this, we will ask the court to do two fundamental things; to convict the Acting IG for contempt of court and to sentence him to the highest permissible legal consequence,” Havi asserted. “We want Gilbert Masengeli not to hold public office because it is not his personal property.”
The sentiment was echoed by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president, Faith Odhiambo, who criticized Masengeli’s absence and the purported reasons behind it. Odhiambo highlighted that Masengeli was reportedly seen taking pictures and engaging in casual activities at the coast, rather than adhering to the court’s directive.
“The Acting IG was at the coast last week taking pictures and having a tete-a-tete instead of obeying court orders,” Odhiambo remarked. Her comments reflect the growing discontent among legal and civil society groups regarding the handling of the case and Masengeli’s perceived lack of accountability.
The court’s patience is wearing thin as Masengeli continues to avoid addressing the allegations and clarifying the whereabouts of the abducted individuals. The ongoing situation raises significant questions about the rule of law and the accountability of high-ranking officials in Kenya.
As the legal proceedings continue, the public and petitioners await decisive action from the court. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for the credibility of Kenya’s police force and the broader governance of law enforcement agencies in the country.
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