A delegation led by Siaya County Governor James Orengo and Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino visited the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters in Nairobi, where they called for strengthened institutional integrity and accountability within the country’s investigative agencies.
The team, operating under the banner of Linda Mwananchi, said their visit was motivated by growing public concern over fairness, transparency, and professionalism in the handling of criminal investigations.
The visit brought together a mix of political leaders and activists who emphasized the need for public institutions to remain independent, impartial, and free from external influence.
According to members of the delegation, the credibility of law enforcement agencies is central to maintaining public trust, especially at a time when citizens are increasingly vocal about governance and justice-related issues.
Governor Orengo, a seasoned legal practitioner and long-time political figure, underscored the importance of upholding constitutional principles in all investigative processes.
He stressed that institutions such as the Directorate of Criminal Investigations must operate within the law and ensure that justice is not only done but is seen to be done. He noted that the strength of any democracy depends heavily on how well its institutions protect citizens’ rights while remaining accountable to the public.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino echoed similar sentiments, stating that the purpose of the visit was not to undermine any institution but to encourage reforms that promote fairness and transparency.
He argued that Kenyans deserve investigative systems that treat all individuals equally, regardless of their social or political status. He further noted that public confidence in law enforcement can only be maintained if there is consistent adherence to due process.
The Linda Mwananchi team said their engagement with the DCI was part of a broader civic effort aimed at ensuring that state agencies remain responsive to citizens’ concerns.
They highlighted cases where members of the public have raised questions about delays in investigations, selective justice, and lack of communication from authorities. According to them, such issues risk eroding trust in institutions that are meant to protect and serve the public.
During the engagement, the delegation reportedly called for improved oversight mechanisms and greater transparency in how investigations are conducted and concluded.
They also urged the DCI to enhance public communication so that citizens are kept informed about the progress of cases, within the limits allowed by law.
The discussion also touched on the broader role of investigative agencies in supporting democracy. The delegation emphasized that strong institutions are essential for maintaining order, protecting rights, and ensuring accountability across all levels of society.
They warned that any perception of bias or inefficiency could weaken public confidence and hinder cooperation between citizens and law enforcement.
Officials at the DCI headquarters received the delegation and acknowledged the concerns raised. They reiterated the agency’s commitment to professionalism, rule of law, and impartial investigations.
They also noted that the institution continues to undergo reforms aimed at improving efficiency and service delivery to the public.
The meeting comes at a time when public discourse in Kenya has increasingly focused on governance, accountability, and institutional reform.
Civil society groups and political leaders alike have been calling for stronger safeguards to ensure that investigative processes remain free from interference and that justice is administered fairly.
While no formal resolutions were announced at the end of the visit, both sides expressed willingness to continue engagement in future dialogues.
The Linda Mwananchi team indicated that they would monitor developments closely and continue advocating for reforms they believe will strengthen public trust in state institutions.
As discussions around accountability continue, the interaction between political leaders, activists, and investigative agencies is expected to remain a key part of the national conversation on governance and the rule of law.
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