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13th September 2024 – Nairobi, Kenya
The President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Faith Odhiambo, has issued a strong call for all public servants to uphold the rule of law and adhere to their code of conduct. Speaking today, President Odhiambo underscored the importance of respecting court orders, following the sentencing of Acting Inspector General (IG) Gilbert Masengeli to six months in prison for contempt of court.
The sentencing, delivered by Justice Mugambi, stems from Constitutional Petition E436 of 2024, in which Masengeli was found guilty of disobeying court orders. He has been granted a seven-day grace period to surrender himself to the court voluntarily. If he fails to comply, he is to present himself to the Commissioner of Prisons, and in the event of further non-compliance, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior has been instructed to ensure Masengeli is arrested and detained.
President Faith emphasized the seriousness of the ruling, stating, “Respect for the rule of law is not an option, it is a requirement. No public servant is above the law, and failure to comply with court orders undermines the integrity of our legal system.”
She called on all public officials to take note of the decision and reiterated that compliance with judicial rulings is fundamental to the country’s democracy and governance.
This case has highlighted the judiciary’s growing role in enforcing accountability among government officials, with the LSK reaffirming its commitment to defending the constitution and ensuring public officers act within the bounds of the law.
