President William Ruto on Wednesday urged the National Police Service (NPS) and the Judiciary to collaborate for the benefit of the Kenyan people. Speaking during the launch of reforms for the Police and Kenya Prisons in Nairobi, Ruto addressed the ongoing tension between Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli and Chief Justice Martha Koome, stressing that conflicts between these two critical institutions could significantly hinder service delivery.
Ruto acknowledged that while both the NPS and the Judiciary are independent entities, it is essential for them to work in harmony. He warned that continued discord between the two bodies could affect their ability to serve the public effectively, undermining efforts to strengthen law enforcement and the justice system in Kenya.
Launch of Reforms of the Police, Kenya Prisons and NYS, Lower Kabete. https://t.co/TKtaaziAIC
— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) September 18, 2024
“I am acutely aware that the National Police Service is independent, and so is the Judiciary, but ultimately, we have one master—the people of Kenya,” Ruto stated. He emphasized that no government office was established for personal gains, and thus, all public servants must prioritize the nation’s welfare over individual interests.
The president called for unity and selflessness, reminding both the police and the judiciary of their shared responsibility to serve the Kenyan people. “I want to ask all of us to work together selflessly for the good of the nation. We must make sure we work together towards serving Kenyans,” Ruto urged.
His remarks come amid ongoing efforts to reform Kenya’s criminal justice system, focusing on improving accountability and efficiency. The president’s appeal highlighted the importance of synergy between law enforcement and the judiciary in achieving these goals and ensuring that Kenyans receive the justice and security they deserve.