Masengeli Sends Message to Kenyans Over Police Abuse Claims Ahead of 2027 Elections

Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli has challenged human rights organisations and members of the public to present evidence of alleged police involvement in abductions, extrajudicial killings and political violence, promising action against officers found culpable.

Masengeli said the National Police Service was committed to operating impartially and would cooperate with independent commissions and other relevant institutions investigating allegations of misconduct.

Speaking amid growing concerns over security and political violence ahead of the August 2027 General Election, the police chief maintained that the service was apolitical and would not engage in partisan politics.

He urged those with credible information about police officers allegedly involved in unlawful activities to come forward, insisting that authorities would act where evidence supported the claims.

“Those we’ve known we have acted upon, but others are just illusions, and if they are facts, come up with evidence, we will take action,” Masengeli said.

His remarks come as human rights defenders raise concerns over alleged state-sanctioned abductions and extrajudicial killings.

The Kenya Human Rights Commission has also questioned the operations of certain specialised police units, claiming some appear to operate outside the formal police structure.

The commission argued that cases involving missing persons and alleged killings require thorough investigations and accountability, particularly where evidence suggests possible involvement by law enforcement officers.

According to findings cited by the commission, Kenya recorded 284 incidents of political violence between January and July 2026.

The incidents reportedly resulted in 65 deaths and affected more than 3,200 people.

The KHRC further warned that political violence and the alleged use of goons could threaten democratic participation, including the freedom of citizens to attend political gatherings and express their views.

Meanwhile, National Cohesion and Integration Commission chairman Kepha Nyamweya urged political leaders and their supporters to promote peaceful campaigns and reject ethnic discrimination.

Nyamweya said a credible election must allow citizens to assemble and campaign freely without intimidation or discrimination.

The concerns have emerged as political parties and electoral stakeholders intensify preparations for the 2027 polls, including signing a Political Decency and Peace Charter.

With the next General Election approaching, pressure is mounting on security agencies to demonstrate accountability, investigate alleged abuses and ensure all Kenyans can participate in political activities safely.

Masengeli’s call for evidence now places renewed focus on whether allegations of police misconduct will lead to credible investigations and action against any officers found responsible.

https://citizen.digital/article/come-with-evidence-well-take-action-dig-masengeli-says-over-police-abuse-claims-n392854?fbclid=IwdGRjcAVN20hjbGNrBU3bMWV4dG4DYWVtAjExAHBkb2YBc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMzUwNjg1NTMxNzI4AAEeiOwhYyfTNEMcsp2IZjIVUpARP40o_KpMhcrTG5eBUeX9xVr6eD-P5pWZLPw_aem_Vq67qwi1cMR0lvETPQRMYw

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