Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli is set to begin his six-month jail term in seven days, following a contempt of court ruling delivered by Justice Lawrence Mugambi on Friday. Masengeli was sentenced after repeatedly failing to honour court summons on seven different occasions.
Justice Mugambi ordered Masengeli to surrender himself to the Commissioner General of Prisons to commence his sentence. Should he fail to do so, the court has directed the Cabinet Secretary for Interior to enforce the order and ensure Masengeli is taken into custody.
However, the court has given the police boss a seven-day grace period to comply with the court’s demands and avoid imprisonment. During this period, Masengeli has the opportunity to “redeem” himself by appearing before the court in person, as he had previously failed to do.
Acting IG of Police Gilbert Masengeli. Photo: NPS Source: Facebook
“The court finds it desirable to impose this sentence as a coercive order rather than a punitive one. Mr. Masengeli may avoid serving this sentence if he complies by availing himself before this court within seven days. If he fails to do so, the sentence will automatically take effect,” Justice Mugambi stated.
Masengeli was summoned to explain the whereabouts of Jamil Longton, his brother Aslam Longton, and activist Bob Njagi, who were allegedly abducted by individuals believed to be police officers during anti-government protests on August 19, 2024. His persistent refusal to appear in court led to his conviction for contempt.
With the seven-day deadline looming, all eyes are on Masengeli to see whether he will comply with the court order or face jail time.
