Maraga demands reinstatement of his security
Former CJ says he is entitled to protection given his service as a Chief Justice, adding that he was not consulted when the withdrawals were made
Emeritus Chief Justice David Maraga has demanded the restoration of his security detail, which was withdrawn yesterday after he joined Wednesday’s protests by Gen Zs.
In a letter addressed to the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja and Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, the former CJ revealed that his security team was told to report back to their stations.
He has called on the State to reinstate his security as he is entitled to protection given his service as a Chief Justice, adding that he was not consulted when the withdrawals were made.
“While I understand that security officers on assignment are required to attend training from time to time, it is my understanding and experience that such action is usually undertaken in consultation and with prior formal communication to me,” the former CJ expressed.
Maraga shared that one of the officers attached to his security team was told to leave on Wednesday, but by yesterday, all of them had been recalled.
“On Wednesday, the day I joined the youth and families of the victims who died and those who went missing from the events of a year ago, one of the officers attached to me was asked not to report for duty but instead go and make a routine (monthly) entry in the firearm register. On arrival that morning, he was suddenly informed of a training that was to take place on the same day. Yesterday, I was informed that the rest of the security officers had been asked to report to their stations, without any further information,” Maraga said in the letter.
He questioned whether the withdrawals were being done owing to his recent criticism of the police service.
“I wish to remind the leadership of the Police and the Ministry of Interior and National Administration that the security arrangements and other facilitation by the National Police Service are benefits guaranteed under the Constitution and the law. It is on this basis that I demand the immediate restoration of my security,” he added.
Maraga is among the notable leaders who attended the June 25 protests to mark the first anniversary of those killed in last year’s Gen Z protests against the Finance Bill.
However, his appearance has been criticised by allies of President William Ruto, including Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Gladys Shollei, who noted that he was protesting against the government yet he is enjoying his pension, among other benefits.
