Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja is under fire after the National Police Service (NPS) summoned blogger and activist Ndiangui Kinyagia to record a statement at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters, despite a court order reportedly barring such actions.
People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua on Thursday, July 3, condemned the move, accusing the police of openly defying judicial orders.
In a strongly-worded statement, Karua warned the police against interfering in a matter still before the courts and criticized NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga for making what she called “sub judice” comments.
“This is not even funny; the matter is sub judice,” Karua stated.
“We shall conclude which way after full information. You remain suspects until the court pronounces itself on the matter. Whatever facts are in your possession should be directed to court by way of affidavits as directed.”
The controversy follows the recent disappearance of Ndiangui, who was later found, sparking widespread concern and accusations that security agencies may have been involved.
His family, represented by legal counsel, appeared in court on July 3, seeking clarity on his detention and safety.
In response, the NPS issued a statement urging Ndiangui to present himself to the DCI for questioning.
“Ndiangui had been reported missing, and information circulating on social as well as mainstream media accused the Police Service of allegedly abducting him,” said Nyaga.
“Nonetheless, he remains a person of interest and is hereby urged to record a statement.”
The police further warned Kenyans against faking abductions, stating such actions are criminal and punishable by law.
“The Service reiterates its earlier position that Ndiangui Kinyagia was not in police custody. We take great exception to the emerging trend whereby individuals feign abduction and provide false information to generate a misleading narrative,” the statement read.
Karua, a former justice minister and a prominent opposition figure, has demanded that the police respect court processes and refrain from actions that could be seen as intimidation or obstruction of justice.
The standoff now sets the stage for a legal and political showdown, as human rights advocates continue to raise alarm over the treatment of activists and critics of the government.
By Kenyans