Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli has stressed that they will not be intimidated and threatened by anyone.

In a statement signed by Masengeli and posted on National Police Service (NPS) social media accounts, the IG said the police are an independent institution that cannot be intimidated.

Masengeli’s comments come at a time when he is under immense criticism for not honouring court summons, which led to Judge Lawrence Mugambi slapping him with a six-month prison sentence.

Chief Justice Martha Koome is among the top public figures who have criticised the interim police boss, especially after the withdrawal of Mugambi’s security detail.

“NPS wishes to rebut the allegations raised by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) relating to the assignment of personal security to judges and to assure the country that the security of all Kenyans, judges included, remains our utmost priority.

“The NPS totally rejects attempts to intimidate, coerce, or otherwise interfere with the operational and functional independence of the police. The IG will go out of his way to safeguard and protect the operational and functional independence of the NPS.

“The National Police Service (NPS) affirms its constitutional independence as a national security organ whose operations and mandate are not subject to interference from any person or authority,” Masengeli’s statement read in part.

The police cite Article 245(4)(c) of the Constitution that provides for the independent command of the NPS vested in the Inspector General of Police (IG), which guarantees that no person may direct the IG with respect to the employment, assignment, promotion, suspension, or dismissal of any police officer.

The Vigilance House unit also cited the law of the land as it affirms its independence.

“The Constitution that other independent offices and arms of government cite as the basis for their independence is the same source of authority for the operational autonomy and independence of the NPS,” it added.

Protection

However, the police vowed that they would continue discharging their role of protecting the people from harm and crime without fear, favour, or affection.

“All Kenyans are entitled to protection of their lives and property by the police regardless of their rank or status in society.

“While it is not feasible to provide every Kenyan with personal security detail, it is the responsibility of the IG to determine requests for personal security detail to any Kenyan in so far as it is practicable, taking into consideration the need for personal security requirements of other Kenyans and the imperatives of addressing collective national security threats as and when they arise anywhere in the country,” it concluded.

Masengeli’s comment comes after the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) condemned him for skipping court summons.