Manyatta Member of Parliament (MP) Gitonga Mukunji has strongly condemned the ongoing incidents of police torture and cruelty in Kenya, emphasizing the need for the police force to uphold human rights and adhere to the rule of law.

Speaking in an interview at a local TV station on May 27, 2025, the MP expressed deep concern over the treatment of individuals by law enforcement officers. He highlighted that no one should be subjected to torture or cruelty during arrest, underscoring that such actions are violations of human rights.

“You are not supposed to be subjected to torture or cruelty as a human being when you are being arrested,” Mukunji stated.

Advocacy for police reform

The MP called for immediate reforms within the police service to ensure accountability and transparency. He suggested that leaders who are unable to tolerate online criticism should consider stepping away from social media platforms, drawing a parallel to former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s decision to leave social media due to personal attacks.

“If any leader feels overwhelmed by social media, shut your account, no one will know. Leave social media,” Mukunji advised.

Mukunji’s remarks come in the wake of several high-profile cases of alleged police abductions. Notably, in December 2024, Billy Mwangi, a young man from Embu, was abducted after posting an AI-generated image of President William Ruto. The MP demanded Mwangi’s immediate release, warning of protests if he were found harmed.

He also voiced concern over the arrest and treatment of Juja MP George Koimburi, who was recently detained under unclear circumstances. Mukunji questioned the legality and manner of Koimburi’s apprehension, stressing the need to protect elected leaders from unlawful targeting.

“If it can happen to a sitting Member of Parliament, what about ordinary Kenyans? We must stop using the police to settle political scores,” he warned.

Call for government accountability

Mukunji also criticized the government’s handling of such cases, urging it to take responsibility for the actions of its officers. He emphasized that the government must ensure the safety and rights of its citizens, stating that the use of extra-judicial methods to implement laws is unacceptable.

His statements reflect a growing concern among Kenyan leaders and citizens about the conduct of law enforcement agencies. His call for an end to police torture and cruelty, along with demands for accountability and reform, underscores the need for a police service that respects human rights and operates within the boundaries of the law.