Bunge La Mwananchi Condemns President Ruto Over Security Withdrawal and Abductions
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The Bunge La Mwananchi lobby group has criticized President William Ruto’s administration for the withdrawal of Chief Justice Martha Koome’s security detail and the reduction of police officers assigned to the Judiciary. The move, executed through the Ministry of Interior, has sparked concerns about rising tensions between the Executive and the Judiciary.
It has been revealed that officers assigned to protect Chief Justice Koome were recalled, and the number of officers in the Judiciary Protection Unit has been significantly reduced. Human rights groups, including Bunge La Mwananchi, have decried the development, labeling it as an intimidation tactic by the government.
“This started with extrajudicial killings, then abductions, and now interference with an independent arm of government. This is unacceptable! If the government disrespects the Judiciary, where can the common Mwananchi turn for protection?” said Bunge La Mwananchi President Francis Awino during a press briefing at Jeevanjee Gardens, Nairobi, on January 23, 2025.
Awino demanded that Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen reinstate the Chief Justice’s security detail immediately. He further criticized the government’s alleged disregard for human rights, referencing recent incidents of abductions and extrajudicial killings.
This controversy comes shortly after the High Court ordered Inspector General Kanja and the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Mohammed Amin to appear in person and explain the disappearance of three individuals—Justus Mutumwa, Martin Mwau, and Karani Muema—who were abducted in Mlolongo.
Bunge La Mwananchi has announced plans to escalate the matter, including filing a formal complaint with the International Criminal Court (ICC). “Despite filing a petition at the East African Court of Justice, the Kenyan government continues to commit heinous acts, such as abductions, torture, and extrajudicial killings. The withdrawal of Chief Justice Koome’s security is a glaring example of its oppressive tactics,” Awino stated.
The group has also vowed to push for accountability for recent extrajudicial killings during anti-government protests over the controversial Finance Bill, emphasizing the need for justice and adherence to the rule of law.
Bunge La Mwananchi’s condemnation underscores growing concerns about the state of human rights and the independence of Kenya’s Judiciary under President Ruto’s administration.
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