The Kenya Magistrates and Judges Association (KMJA) has demanded the National Police Service (NPS) to restore Justice Lawrence Mugambi's security detail, which were withdrawn on September 16, 2024.

Terming it as a blatant violation of the Constitution, KMJA Vice President Rhoda Yator explained that the action sent a chilling message to all judges and judicial officials that they may face consequences for upholding the law. 

NPS' actions, according to KMJA, were after the High Court judge ordered for the immediate release of three individuals who had gone missing in a case implicating Acting Inspector General of Police, Gilbert Masengeli. 

The acting IG has disregarded seven court summons, resulting in a guilty verdict and a 6-month prison sentence. In the ruling, Justice Mugambi ordered Masengeli to submit himself to the commissioner general of prisons. 

He, however, issued a caveat, saying that the acting IG may avoid serving the sentence if he appears in court within seven days from the date of ruling. 

According to KMJA, the act to withdraw the judge's security detail reflects a trend that endangers the Judiciary. 

"This troubling pattern of intimidation reflects a developing broader culture that seeks to undermine the very institutions designed to uphold justice," Yator said. 

In response, Masengeli said that the two officers were withdrawn to attend a VIP training program. He clarified that as per the law, the president, the deputy president and retired presidents are the only ones entitled to personal security detail. 

The association also highlighted a separate incident involving Likoni MP Mishi Mboko allegedly causing a chaotic scene at the Mombasa Kadhis Court on Monday, September 16.

According to KMJA, the MP stormed into Kadhi Abdiaziz's chambers and sought to challenge the decision involving Mboko's relative. 

"Instead of engaging in a constructive dialogue, the MP resorted to loud confrontations, accompanied by threats and accusations of corruption against not just the Kadhi, but the entire Judiciary," read part of the statement. 

"The Kadhi advised her on the appropriate legal steps to take, to no avail. The public witnessed a chaotic scene in the court, where the MP’s aggressive tactics created a serious disruption."