Lawyer Willis Otieno has accused President William Ruto of turning Kenya Police into a political tool. Instead of protecting citizens, Otieno says the force is being used to intimidate critics and opposition figures.
Otieno made the remarks on X on Friday, September 19, 2025. He said the police, mandated by Article 244 of the Constitution to protect life, property, and rights, are now acting on “orders from above.”
“When police act on political instructions instead of the law, they stop being a service and become a weapon of fear,” Otieno said.
Return to “Dark Days”
Otieno warned that Kenya is witnessing a return to the “dark days” when state agencies acted as private militias for those in power. He argued that the current police leadership no longer follows the Constitution.
“The Constitution is very clear. Police are meant to protect citizens. But today, citizens are intimidated, activists are disappearing, and opposition leaders are silenced,” he added.
Large Police Recruitment Raises Concerns
The remarks come after the government announced plans to recruit 10,000 new police constables this year. Otieno linked this move to increased police use of force during public protests.
Citizens demanding accountability are reportedly met with teargas and brutal dispersals. Abductions of activists and harassment of opposition voices are also on the rise. Otieno says these are signs that the police are being misused.
Uphold the Constitution
Otieno urged the police and the government to respect the Constitution. He stressed that the police should serve all Kenyans, not political interests.
“If this continues, Kenya risks sliding back to a time when state power instilled fear instead of protecting the people,” he said.
His comments add to growing criticism of how the government handles protests and dissent. Observers warn that the neutrality of Kenya Police is being compromised, eroding public trust.
