IG Robert Masengeli Has Failed To Appear in Court for The Third Time.
IG Robert Masengeli Has Failed To Appear in Court for The Third Time.
The court was informed that the Acting IG was away for a workshop in Mombasa and thus unable to attend court.
This is the third time the Acting IG has failed to appear before the court as ordered.
The court requested his presence so that he could explain why he should not be held in contempt of court over a missing persons case.
“The court has to assert its authority on maintenance of rule of law where deliberate disobedience of its orders has been demonstrated. However this is a power that must be exercised with utmost care,” said Mugambi.
The court expected Masengeli to appear on Tuesday for questioning regarding the disappearance of three people in Kitengela two weeks ago. But he didn’t.
The Judge’s legal team informed him that he was on official business away from the office.
However, the LSK, through its boss Faith Odhiambo, stated that the IG is still in contempt after being summoned to court.
“They are showing no intention to honor the court’s orders. The purported official duties are not more important than human lives,” she said.
Odhiambo claimed that the IG has not presented any evidence to show that he is out of town. They wanted an arrest warrant issued against him.
“He has disrespected the court by ignoring the Bill of Rights. The petitioners’ families have not seen or heard anything about their kids, they are dismayed,” she added.
Judge Mugambi agreed with the LSK that everyone is entitled to basic rights and freedoms.
He stated that it is the state’s responsibility to protect the rights and fundamental freedoms outlined in the Bill of Rights.
“This is a country led by rule of law not the minds of men. The court has teeth and can bite,” said the Judge.
“Those that deliberately ignore court orders must be ready to face the consequences.”
However, he allowed the IG to defend himself before issuing further orders.
IG Robert Masengeli Has Failed To Appear in Court for The Third Time.
