A group of Anglican bishops from the Nyanza region has demanded the disbandment of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), accusing it of harassment, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings targeting innocent citizens.

Led by Charles Onginjo, Bishop of the Diocese of Maseno South, the clerics claimed the DCI has degenerated into a rogue outfit that no longer upholds the law but instead operates with impunity and cruelty. They made the remarks during a press conference in Kisumu.

“As the symbol of national unity, the President must protect all citizens,” said Onginjo, criticising the silence of President William Ruto amid rising cases of police brutality. “It is disheartening that Kenyans continue to suffer at the hands of security officers while the President looks on.”

Onginjo called for a complete review of the DCI’s role and structure, warning that its unchecked conduct was undermining democracy and public safety. “The DCI, funded by taxpayers, cannot be allowed to operate like a licensed gang. It has become a tool of oppression instead of a defender of justice,” he said.

The bishops, drawn from six counties in Nyanza, warned that growing abuses by security agencies were weakening public trust in law enforcement and endangering the country’s stability.

“When citizens begin to view the police as their number one enemy, we must accept that we are sliding into a dangerous state of anarchy,” Onginjo said.

He urged President Ruto to move beyond expressions of sympathy and take firm action to address the growing discontent. “Mere words will not heal the pain or anger of families mourning loved ones. Leadership must be seen and felt,” he added.

David Kodia, Bishop of Bondo and chair of the ACK Nyanza regional bishops’ forum, said the Kisumu meeting was part of a broader session of reflection and prayer on the state of the country.

“We have had a moment of deeper reflections and prayers, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit in our calling as shepherds of God’s flock—flock that has for long been subjected to brutal and senseless harassment by those in power and their agents,” Kodia said.

He stressed that religious leaders have a duty to speak out on behalf of Kenyans suffering under heavy-handed policing. “The manner in which the government is using the police to harass, maim, and kill those presumed to oppose it is not only criminal but evil and satanic in its entirety,” said Kodia. “There are no words strong enough to describe such acts.”

He called on leaders across all levels to uphold the rights and dignity of every citizen, adding that justice must be served without discrimination or fear.