Prominent Eldoret-based human rights defender Kipkorir Ngetich has issued a passionate and strongly-worded statement calling on the Inspector General of Police and the Cabinet Secretary for Interior to urgently intervene and ensure the safety and dignity of police officers who are lawfully carrying out their duties.
Addressing a press conference in Eldoret, Ngetich expressed growing concern over what he described as a disturbing trend of citizen aggression, obstruction, and harassment of police officers—a development he warned could rapidly spiral into national lawlessness if not urgently addressed.
“We are witnessing an alarming culture where law-abiding police officers are being insulted, assaulted, and threatened simply for doing their job. This is unacceptable. Law enforcement officers, like all citizens, have rights and responsibilities. Their uniform does not strip them of their humanity,” Ngetich stated.
He cautioned that such behavior, if unchecked, would not only erode public order but also embolden criminal elements across the country.
“A nation that humiliates its security personnel while expecting protection from the same officers is treading a dangerous path. If criminals perceive that society and leadership do not stand with the rule of law, they are emboldened. That’s already happening in some areas,” said the activist.
Ngetich emphasized that isolated incidents of police misconduct—which must be addressed through due legal channels—should not be used to criminalize or discredit the entire police service.
“Just as we say one criminal among citizens does not make the whole community criminal, one rogue officer should not be used to condemn the entire police force. We must avoid hypocrisy and maintain consistency in our calls for justice.”
He further criticized a growing culture of political interference and populist rhetoric, accusing some leaders of inciting citizens, especially youths, to disrespect or even attack law enforcement officers under the guise of championing democracy.
“True democracy does not mean chaos. It does not mean turning every demonstration into a battlefield or every officer into an enemy. Democracy thrives in an environment of law and order, not street anarchy. Our Constitution gives us the right to protest, but it also imposes responsibilities—to be peaceful, lawful, and respectful,” he added.
Ngetich urged Kenyans, particularly young people, to embrace civic responsibility, warning that continued erosion of respect for public institutions will only weaken the very pillars of democracy they seek to defend.
“It is unfortunate that due to political manipulation and misinformation, many young Kenyans have lost faith in the police. This mistrust has been fueled by reckless statements from leaders who should know better. As a result, we are raising a generation that no longer sees value in discipline, due process, or lawful authority.”
He called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to enhance its visibility and proactivity in handling complaints against police officers to help restore public confidence and prevent mob justice.
“IPOA must be seen to be working. It must be impartial, effective, and efficient. We need oversight, yes, but we also need protection for the officers who are doing their job right. Justice must serve both the public and the protectors of the public.”
Ngetich said that the politicization of security matters is not only dangerous but also undermines professional investigations and accountability mechanisms.
“Our politicians are not trained investigators. They should allow independent institutions to do their work without interference. Security matters should be approached with sobriety, not slogans.”
He warned that continued public harassment of police officers could cripple law enforcement operations, leaving communities vulnerable to rising crime rates.
“Right now, some officers hesitate to act because they fear being filmed, mocked, or dragged through social media trials. This fear undermines their ability to protect us. A society where police cannot enforce the law is a society sliding into chaos.”
In a bold conclusion, Ngetich called on all Kenyans—citizens, security officers, and political leaders—to reflect on their roles in nation-building and protecting the rule of law.
“As a country, we are at a crossroads. We must choose: Do we want to live under the rule of law or under the rule of the jungle? We cannot claim to be a progressive nation if we condone impunity, glorify lawlessness, and vilify institutions meant to uphold peace and order.”
“Let us not raise a disobedient and immoral generation. Let us teach our youth to speak up—but to do so within the confines of the law. Let us demand accountability, but also offer respect. Our future depends on it.”
Ngetich’s statement comes in the wake of a series of violent confrontations between protesters and police officers in various parts of the country, during which some officers were attacked, insulted, or obstructed from performing their duties.
The activist has called for calm, mutual respect, and open dialogue between citizens and law enforcement agencies, insisting that Kenya’s stability depends on a balanced approach to justice, accountability, and institutional respect.
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