Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja:Pool
The President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Faith Odhiambo, has strongly emphasized the society’s commitment to ensuring justice for the victims of abductions and the upholding of human rights. In a recent statement, Odhiambo revealed that LSK had filed a petition in court demanding the release of the abducted individuals and seeking justice for the victims. The petition also calls for the recognition of the human rights violations they endured.
Odhiambo further underscored the need for the High Court to act decisively in this matter. The court has given the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, a final chance to appear in court and explain the whereabouts of the abducted youths. Failure to comply will result in contempt charges, with the possibility of jail time.
The court had earlier ordered that both Kanja and the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Mohamed Amin personally appear before the court. However, on the day of the scheduled session, both security chiefs failed to attend, citing an urgent security matter that required their attention.
Paul Nyamodi, their lawyer, informed the court that the two were ready to attend but had been diverted due to unforeseen circumstances. However, Senior Counsel Kalonzo Musyoka, representing the petitioners, insisted that the case could not proceed without the personal appearance of the police chief.
Justice Bahati Mwamuye, who presided over the session, adjourned the proceedings for 30 minutes, allowing Nyamodi to attempt to contact the IG. When the session resumed, Nyamodi reported his failure to reach the IG, stating that he had left early for a security meeting.
In response, Justice Mwamuye stated that the only remaining options were to either cite the IG for contempt of court, issue a warrant for his arrest, or imprison him. However, the judge opted to give the IG one final chance to appear before the court. He further noted that he would invite the IG for mitigation before making any final decisions.
Meanwhile, Nyamodi requested that the police be granted 14 days to record statements from the abductees who had been released, so that the necessary steps could be taken for accountability.
The Law Society of Kenya remains firm in its stance on the need for transparency, justice, and the protection of fundamental human rights. The society will continue to advocate for all those affected by human rights violations and stand for justice until all victims receive the justice they deserve.
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