A UK-based civil society organisation has called on the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) to suspend senior officials of the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) over allegations of enforced disappearances, abductions, and deaths involving Kenyan citizens.
The Justice and Equity Council (UK Chapter) made the appeal in a statement addressed to the Chairperson and Secretary of the National Police Service Commission.
Group cites recent disappearances and deaths
The organisation expressed concern over what it described as a growing number of enforced disappearances and deaths.
It cited the death of blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody and also referred to the cases of Gideon Kibet, Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, and Bernard Kavuli.
According to the council, the incidents raise serious constitutional and human rights concerns.
NPSC urged to suspend senior officials
The Justice and Equity Council urged the National Police Service Commission to suspend senior police leadership pending investigations.
The organisation argued that the Inspector General of Police, the Deputy Inspector General, and DCI Director Mohamed Amin should be investigated over alleged failures in protecting citizens.
It maintained that the commission has the constitutional responsibility to ensure police leaders meet the highest standards of integrity and accountability.
Call for constitutional accountability
The council argued that the Constitution guarantees every Kenyan protection from unlawful treatment, torture, and abuse.
Furthermore, it criticised what it described as inadequate action by security agencies in addressing reported disappearances and deaths.
The group also questioned official statements regarding the death of Albert Ojwang and called for transparent investigations.
Justice and Equity Council expresses concern
The organisation said public confidence in law enforcement has declined because of repeated allegations involving security agencies.
It further argued that democratic institutions must respond firmly whenever public officials face serious allegations.
According to the statement, accountability is necessary to restore trust in the National Police Service.
Appeal to the National Police Service Commission
The Justice and Equity Council urged the National Police Service Commission to exercise its constitutional mandate by investigating the officials named in the statement.
The organisation maintained that independent investigations and appropriate disciplinary action would strengthen the rule of law and protect constitutional rights.
It concluded by calling on the commission to act without delay in the interest of justice and public confidence.
