Demand Nyanza Bishops Call for DCI Disbandment Over Extrajudicial Killings

Some Anglican Church of Kenya bishops from the Nyanza region have called for the disbandment of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, accusing it of harassment, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings targeting innocent Kenyans.

Led by Rev Charles Onginjo, Bishop of the Diocese of Maseno South, the bishops condemned what they termed as increasing cases of police brutality, alleging the DCI has morphed into a rogue unit now operating with impunity.

Speaking during a press conference in Kisumu, the bishops—from six counties across the region—urged President William Ruto to intervene and restore public trust in Kenya’s security institutions.

“As the symbol of national unity, the President must protect all citizens,” said Bishop Onginjo, decrying the silence of the head of state amid rising cases of brutality. “It is disheartening that Kenyans continue to suffer at the hands of security officers while the President looks on.”

He called for a complete re-evaluation of the DCI’s mandate, arguing that its continued existence in its current form threatens democratic freedoms and public safety.

“The DCI, funded by taxpayers, cannot be allowed to operate like a licensed gang. It has become a tool of oppression instead of a defender of justice,” he said.

The clergy further warned that the unchecked actions of the DCI and other security agencies risk eroding public confidence in law enforcement, potentially pushing the country towards lawlessness.

“When citizens begin to view the police as their number one enemy, we must accept that we are sliding into a dangerous state of anarchy,” bishop Onginjo cautioned.

He challenged the President to move beyond condolences and take bold action to reform the security sector. “Mere words will not heal the pain or anger of families mourning loved ones. Leadership must be seen and felt.”

Rev David Kodia, Bishop of Bondo and chairperson of the ACK Nyanza regional bishops’ forum, said their meeting in Kisumu was part of a wider session of prayer and reflection on the state of the nation.

“We have had a moment of deeper reflections and prayers, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit in our calling as shepherds of God’s flock—flock that has for long been subjected to brutal and senseless harassment by those in power and their agents,” Kodia said.

He emphasized that, as spiritual leaders, they are divinely compelled to stand with millions of Kenyans enduring injustices under the hands of brutal police officers and their unfeeling superiors.

“The manner in which the government is using the police to harass, maim, and kill those presumed to oppose it is not only criminal but evil and satanic in its entirety,” Kodia said. “There are no words strong enough to describe such acts.”

Kodia called for accountability at all levels, urging leaders to uphold the dignity and rights of all citizens without fear or favour.