The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has sharply criticized Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen for dismissing a High Court order requiring police officers to display their identities during protests.

Speaking during an interview on Tuesday, Murkomen claimed that the order was “subject to interpretation” and argued that officers could conceal their identities “to protect themselves.”

“That order is subject to interpretation because we will not allow our police officers to put their lives in danger by wearing uniform when they are not supposed to wear uniform,” Murkomen said.

In a strongly worded statement, LSK President Faith Odhiambo condemned Murkomen’s remarks as a blatant disregard for the rule of law, warning that court orders cannot be selectively applied.

“By proposing that court orders are subject to interpretation by the Executive, Mr. Murkomen has elevated himself, the National Police Service and the Executive arm of Government to a non-existent pedestal of supremacy in law, where compliance with court orders is a matter of choice and convenience,” Odhiambo said.

She stressed that all court orders are binding and must be strictly complied with unless overturned by a competent court.

Odhiambo further warned that any officer disguising their identity while a court order remains in force would be committing an act of contempt.

The High Court in August 2024 directed the Inspector General of Police to ensure all officers deployed during demonstrations wear proper uniforms, display their service numbers, and avoid concealing their faces.

The order followed an urgent petition filed by the LSK, which argued that police were undermining accountability by deploying unidentified officers during protests.

The Sixth Schedule of the National Police Service Act outlines clear rules on the use of force and officer identification during law enforcement operations.