Former Chief Justice David Maraga has alleged that his police security detail was abruptly withdrawn by the government due to his recent involvement in the June 25 memorial protests.
In a formal complaint addressed to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Maraga expressed his concerns over what he believes to be a retaliatory action, following his outspoken criticism of the police force and his participation in the protests that commemorated victims of last year’s unrest.
Maraga, who retired on January 12, 2021, is entitled to police protection under the Retirement Benefits (Deputy President and Designated State Officers) Act. According to Maraga, his security detail, which had been provided on request since his retirement, was withdrawn without prior notice.
“The withdrawal was abrupt, with no formal communication or prior consultation,” Maraga said. “On June 25, 2025, as I joined the youth and families of those who died or went missing in last year’s tragic events, one of my security officers was told not to report for duty. The following day, I was informed that the rest of my team had been reassigned.”
While Maraga acknowledged that officers are sometimes required to attend training, he stressed that such changes are typically made with adequate notice and consultation. He further emphasized that the security arrangements provided by the National Police Service are not a mere privilege but a constitutional and legal right.
“I demand the immediate reinstatement of my security,” Maraga stated in his letter to the Ministry of Interior. “These arrangements are guaranteed under both the Constitution and the law, and must be respected.”
Maraga’s suspicions about the motive behind the withdrawal grew after his public criticism of the police, particularly his call for the arrest and prosecution of senior officers implicated in the controversial death of Albert Ojwang, who allegedly died in police custody. Maraga linked his security’s sudden removal to these actions, stating, “It is curious that my security was withdrawn immediately following my public stance on police accountability and my involvement in the protests.”
The protests on June 25, which saw violent clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement, resulted in over 600 injuries, including gunshot wounds, stabbings, and reports of sexual violence. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and other emergency responders were deployed to provide medical care to the injured, while Amnesty International reported at least 16 deaths, the majority at the hands of police forces.
Maraga’s case raises broader concerns about the relationship between political dissent and security privileges for retired officials. His claims have sparked public debate about whether this was an isolated incident or part of a larger pattern of government efforts to suppress those who challenge its policies.
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