NAIROBI, Kenya- Lawyer Donald Kipkorir has questioned the impartiality of Kenya’s security agencies in handling cases of political incitement and violence, arguing that selective arrests could deepen political tensions.
In a statement, Kipkorir criticised the National Police Service (NPS) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), saying both institutions have a constitutional obligation to operate independently of political interests.
“As long as NPS & DCI only arrests one part of the political divide for incitement & goonism, both institutions which are protected by the Constitution & the law continue to perpetuate mainstreaming of political violence,” Kipkorir said.
His comments came amid heightened political tensions following violence reported during political activities in Homa Bay, where journalists, political supporters and security officers were among those caught up in confrontations.
Kipkorir calls for police neutrality
The lawyer said the Constitution requires the police to remain above partisan politics and accused the security agencies of failing to demonstrate that principle consistently.
“The Constitution is VERY CLEAR that the Police is above politics,” he said.
Kipkorir questioned whether the police and DCI were capable of acting independently when dealing with allegations of political incitement and violence involving rival political camps.
“When will our Police & DCI ever truly be independent? When will they ever be courageous to protect our Constitution without bias or discrimination?” he asked.
Homa Bay violence raises fresh concerns
His remarks come after a turbulent weekend in Homa Bay, where supporters of the Linda Mwananchi movement encountered road blockades and attacks as they travelled through the county for political rallies.
Several journalists were assaulted while covering the events, while media vehicles and equipment were damaged. A Mediamax vehicle was torched, while a Citizen TV vehicle was also targeted.
The violence has prompted calls from human rights and media organisations for independent investigations and accountability.
Amnesty International Kenya on Sunday condemned reported attacks on journalists, destruction of property, road blockades and intimidation in Homa Bay. The organisation also called for investigations into the conduct of security agencies and urged authorities to hold all individuals responsible for violence accountable.
Kipkorir also drew a historical comparison, accusing the police of behaving as though Kenya had returned to an era when the security apparatus was closely associated with the ruling party.
“But it seems, they still think we live in Kenya before 2002, when the Police was acting like armed wing of KANU!” he said.
He concluded by asking when the police and DCI would become fully independent and protect constitutional rights without discrimination.
The criticism comes as political temperatures rise ahead of the 2027 General Election, with renewed scrutiny on the conduct of security agencies during opposition political activities.
