The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mr. Renson M. Ingonga, has strongly reaffirmed that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) remains fully independent and completely shielded from any form of political interference or direction.
Speaking on Wednesday during a courtesy call on the Migori County Commissioner, the DPP emphasised that Article 157 of the Constitution of Kenya expressly prohibits political influence over prosecution decisions.
“The Constitution is very clear — this office does not take instructions from the political class,” Mr. Ingonga stated.
“Political interference does not arise when it comes to prosecution. Every citizen, regardless of status or affiliation, is equal before the law and will be held accountable based solely on evidence and the rule of law.”
During his working visit to Migori County, the DPP held high-level engagements with the County Commissioner, Migori governor Ochillo Ayacko, the Judiciary, security agencies, county leadership, and other justice-sector stakeholders.
The interactions focused on strengthening coordination, improving service delivery, and addressing grassroots challenges affecting the administration of criminal justice.
Mr. Ingonga reiterated the ODPP’s unwavering commitment to its constitutional mandate of instituting and undertaking criminal prosecutions independently, upholding accountability, and promoting human rights for all Kenyans.
Zero Tolerance on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
The DPP issued a stern warning on the continued practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in parts of Kuria Sub-County, particularly during the December festive season.
He assured residents that the ODPP will prosecute all reported FGM cases firmly, swiftly, and without compromise.
“FGM is a gross violation of the rights of girls and women. The ODPP will not hesitate to act on every case brought before us. Protecting our children is a shared national responsibility,” the DPP declared.
The Migori visit forms part of a wider outreach programme across the Nyanza region. The DPP has already toured Siaya, Kisumu, Nyamira, and Kisii counties, where he received positive feedback on ODPP operations and strengthened working relationships with local justice actors.
“This is our fifth county in the region, and the reception has been overwhelmingly positive. We are here to listen, to understand local challenges, and to ensure the people of Migori and the entire Nyanza region receive timely and professional prosecution services,” Mr. Ingonga concluded.
According to the official, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions remains committed to delivering independent, impartial, and efficient prosecution services for the people of Kenya.
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