Muturi seeks court action against IG Kanja over security standoff
Muturi argues that as a former Speaker of the National Assembly, he is entitled to two armed officers for his protection.
Former Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has filed a contempt of court case against Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja for allegedly failing to comply with a court order to reinstate his security detail.
Muturi argues that as a former Speaker of the National Assembly, he is entitled to two armed officers for his protection under the Retirement Benefits (Deputy Presidents and Designated State Officers) Act.
He claims that his security was withdrawn shortly after he was removed from the Cabinet by President William Ruto, leaving him vulnerable to potential threats.
On April 11, 2025, Justice Chacha Mwita issued a conservatory order directing Kanja to immediately restore Muturi's security detail and refrain from withdrawing or interfering with it until the case is heard on June 24, 2025.
Muturi’s affidavit states, "The court issued a conservatory order directing the Inspector General of Police to immediately reinstate or restore my security and not to withdraw or interfere with it in any manner until 24 June 2025."
Despite this, Muturi claims his security has not been reinstated, and he fears for his safety.
In his application, Muturi stresses the imminent threat to his life and asserts that the withdrawal of his security was politically motivated.
He links the action to his vocal criticism of the Ruto administration, particularly regarding issues like abductions and extrajudicial killings during last year's anti-government protests.
He describes the move to withdraw his security as an attempt to intimidate him and punish him for exercising his constitutional right to free speech.
Muturi contends that the police chief’s actions have violated the legal protections afforded to retired Speakers of the National Assembly, calling the decision "malicious" and "without lawful explanation."
He insists that the withdrawal of his security was "unreasonable, whimsical, and ought to be quashed."
On April 17, Muturi's legal team, Isaac W & Associates, sent a letter to Kanja demanding compliance with the court’s order, but it is alleged that no action was taken.
As a result, Muturi has now initiated contempt proceedings against the IG. "It is the unqualified duty of every person against whom an order is issued to comply with it," he states.
