Former Chief Justice David Maraga now claims that the government has withdrawn his security detail, reportedly due to his participation in the June 25 protests.
Maraga made the claims in a letter dated Friday, June 27, 2025, addressed to the Ministry of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, days after he joined the youth and families of the victims who died during the events of June 2024.
The former CJ said that he has enjoyed the services of armed guards and drivers since his retirement in January 2021.
“As you may well know, the benefits of a retired Chief Justice are provided for and protected under Section 5A as read with the First Schedule (paragraphs (a) and (h)) of the Retirement Benefits (Deputy President and Designated State Officers) Act, Cap. 1978 (Revised 2022),” read part of the letter.
“Under the Act, the Retired Chief Justice is entitled to Police security and Police drivers who are to be provided upon request by the retired Chief Justice.”
Former CJ Maraga accuses govt of withdrawing his security
However, Maraga said that on the day of the protests this week, one of the officers attached to him was asked not to report for duty but instead go and make a routine (monthly) entry in the firearm register.
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This was before the said officer was in the morning informed of a training that was to take place on the same day, according to the CJ.
He further said that he was informed on Thursday that the rest of his security officers have been asked to report to their stations, without any further information.
Maraga, while maintaining his understanding that security officers on assignment are required to attend training from time to time, highlighted that such action is usually undertaken in consultation, and with prior formal communication.
Also Read: Police Blocked from Using Teargas During Protests in These Places
The former CJ pointed out that he has in the past spoken out, on several occasions, against the manner in which the police have carried out investigations into the controversial circumstances surrounding the murder of Albert Ojwang while in police custody.
“I specifically called for the arrest and prosecution of senior police officers who were mentioned in connection with the murder. I have enjoyed the services of the officers attached in my office for almost five years now uninterrupted,” he said.
“It is curious that they were suddenly recalled after my public criticism of the police leadership and my participation in the Nairobi CBD March of 25 June 2025.”
Maraga further demanded the immediate restoration of his security.
UN and United Kingdom issue statements on June 25 protests
Meanwhile, the United Nations Human Rights Office has expressed deep concern over reports of multiple fatalities and injuries during the Wednesday nationwide protests in Kenya.
The UN rights body in a statement released on Thursday called for urgent investigations into the conduct of law enforcement officers, especially following reports that some protesters suffered gunshot wounds.
“We are deeply concerned by reports of several deaths of protesters and many more injuries – of protesters and police officers – during demonstrations in Kenya on Wednesday,” the UN Human Rights Office said.
The office further reminded Kenyan authorities that the use of lethal force by police must adhere strictly to international human rights standards. On its part, the British High Commission in Kenya has expressed concern on the violence and looting witnessed during the protests.
While sending its condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, the High Commission said that there should be accountability for anyone who broke the law.
“We continue to support Kenya’s police reform agenda, freedom of expression & peaceful protest,” the British High Commission in Kenya said.
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