In a surprising twist, Kisumu senator Prof Tom Ojienda has come out in defence of Gilbert Masengeli, the acting Inspector General of Police, who is currently embroiled in a contentious legal battle.
Masengeli, who is under scrutiny for contempt of court, is facing a six-month prison sentence, and the senator’s remarks have ignited a heated debate.
During an interview on Thursday, September 19, 2024, Ojienda controversially characterized Masengeli as a law-abiding citizen, a statement that drew sharp criticism from Thirdway Alliance Party leader Ekuru Aukot, who was also present.
“Masengeli is a good man; I know him, and he is a law-abiding DIG,” Ojienda stated, defending the embattled police chief.
In response, Aukot challenged Ojienda’s assertion, questioning how someone who disobeys court orders could be considered law-abiding.
“I don’t think so; when you disobey a court order, how can you be a law-abiding citizen?” Aukot interjected.
Ojienda persisted, praising Masengeli’s rise within the police ranks.
“He has risen to the rank where he is,” the senator continued, despite Aukot’s visible frustration with his puffery.
“Prof, you know you are speaking to the nation,” Aukot said, expressing dismay at Ojienda’s defence of Masengeli.
In his rebuttal, Ojienda argued that Masengeli deserves the benefit of the doubt, noting that the acting IG has yet to publicly address his legal issues.
“Let us, for a moment, give Masengeli the benefit of the doubt. We’ve not heard him speak in public and explain his problems. I think we always condemn individuals when they are on the wrong side of the law,” Ojienda remarked.
The senator, who is a senior counsel, emphasized his decision to defend Masengeli, highlighting the challenges of his role.
“As a lawyer, a senior counsel, I choose to defend individuals who have not been heard. Masengeli was catapulted to acting IG within a few weeks; we must understand the difficulties and pressures that come with this office,” Ojienda added.
Legal troubles
Masengeli’s legal troubles have captured national attention. The acting IG has been ordered by the High Court to address claims related to the abduction of three individuals, Boby Njagi, Aslam Longton, and Jamil Longton, in Kitengela.
His failure to comply with court orders has resulted in the prison sentence, pending the outcome of his appeal.
Ojienda’s defence contrasts sharply with the criticism from figures like Seme MP James Nyikal, who has called for Masengeli’s imprisonment, arguing that his disregard for court orders undermines public trust in the police force.
Despite these challenges, Masengeli’s supporters continue to highlight his service in the police force, portraying him as a man of good repute.
The senator’s defence reflects a broader debate on balancing accountability with the presumption of innocence in high-profile cases.
As Masengeli awaits further legal proceedings and a scheduled appeal, the ongoing tensions and divisions within politics and law enforcement remain evident.
