President William Ruto has called for harmony between the National Police Service (NPS) and the Judiciary, urging them to resolve their differences and work together for the benefit of all Kenyans. Speaking on Wednesday during the launch of Police and Prisons Reforms in Nairobi, Ruto stressed the need for collaboration between these two crucial institutions, which have been publicly at odds in recent weeks.

Highlights

• President Ruto appeals for cooperation between the NPS and Judiciary.
• Ongoing tension between Acting IG Gilbert Masengeli and Chief Justice Martha Koome.
• Ruto emphasizes unity and collaboration to improve service delivery.

President Ruto’s Call for Unity

President Ruto acknowledged the independence of both the NPS and the Judiciary but reminded them of their shared responsibility to serve the public. He urged the leaders of both institutions to focus on the needs of Kenyans, putting aside personal or institutional rivalries. “I am aware that the National Police Service and the Judiciary are independent, but we all serve one master—the people of Kenya,” Ruto emphasised.

Ruto’s call for unity comes at a time of rising tension between the police and the judiciary, particularly between Acting Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli and Chief Justice Martha Koome. The president noted that while independence is important, both institutions must find ways to collaborate effectively in order to serve the nation better. “We must work together selflessly to serve Kenyans. The collaboration of these bodies is vital for the progress and safety of the nation,” he added.

Beyond the NPS and the Judiciary, Ruto also encouraged other government agencies to strengthen their relationships, emphasising that harmonious engagement is key to advancing the country’s development. “It’s essential that we work together for the greater good of Kenyans,” Ruto stated, stressing the importance of building bridges across all government offices.

Background: Police-Judiciary Dispute

The president’s remarks follow an escalating dispute between Chief Justice Martha Koome and Acting Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli. The rift emerged after Koome accused Masengeli of undermining the judiciary by withdrawing security from Justice Lawrence Mugambi. Mugambi had sentenced Masengeli to six months in prison for contempt of court, sparking a backlash.

Masengeli, however, denied these claims, stating that Justice Mugambi’s security detail had been reinstated and dismissing the allegations as unfounded. Despite this, the incident has drawn public attention, highlighting the need for improved coordination between the police and judiciary, both of which are essential to upholding Kenya’s governance and rule of law.

Ruto’s Push for Reforms

Ruto’s address also tied into broader reforms aimed at improving the functioning of both the police and prison systems in Kenya. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the independence of all constitutional bodies while also emphasising the importance of collaboration in achieving common goals. “We must protect our democracy and defend our independent institutions. Only by working together can we achieve the common good,” Ruto concluded.

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