• This controversy erupted following remarks by Chief Justice Martha Koome, who condemned the removal of Justice Mugambi's security as a direct assault on judicial independence. 

Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda has voiced strong opposition to the recent decision by Acting Inspector General (IG) Gilbert Masengeli to withdraw the security detail of Justice Lawrence Mugambi, calling it a breach of judicial independence.

“I have served on the Judiciary Service Commission (JSC), and I understand that judicial and decisional independence are critical to the integrity of our Judiciary. Any perception of threat that diminishes a judge's sense of security is unacceptable. This action violates the independence of the Judiciary,” Ojienda stated.

This controversy erupted following remarks by Chief Justice Martha Koome, who condemned the removal of Justice Mugambi's security as a direct assault on judicial independence. According to Koome, the officers were disarmed and reassigned over the weekend, raising significant concerns regarding the National Police Service's respect for the judiciary.

In a statement released on September 15, 2024, IG Masengeli explained that the reassignment of the two officers was necessary for them to attend VIP security courses. He emphasized that appropriate arrangements were made to ensure Justice Mugambi's safety.

The backdrop to this incident involves a recent court ruling where Justice Lawrence Mugambi sentenced IG Masengeli to six months in prison for contempt of court. Masengeli faced this punishment after failing to respond to seven court summons regarding the whereabouts of Bob Njagi, Jamil Longton, and his brother Aslam Longton, who were reported missing amidst ongoing anti-government protests led by Gen Z activists.

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Senator Ojienda further stressed the need for improvements in police welfare, urging that the National Police Service (NPS) and the Inspector General work collaboratively to create humane working conditions for the police force.

The government has initiated a series of reforms, including a 40% salary increase for the lowest ranks within the services, aimed at transforming the nation's security apparatus.

On September 18, 2024, President Ruto launched the Strategic Framework for implementing reforms across the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service, and the National Youth Service, signaling a commitment to enhancing the effectiveness and integrity of these institutions.