A section of Anglican Church bishops from the Nyanza region has called for the immediate disbandment of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), accusing the unit of being a tool for oppression and intimidation.

Speaking during a service at the ACK St. Stephens Cathedral in Kisumu, the clerics, led by their regional chairman Dr. David Kodia, expressed concern over what they termed as rising cases of police brutality, harassment, and extrajudicial killings allegedly committed by security forces.

“The DCI has become a dreaded unit used by those in power to harass Kenyans. This is not what a democratic state should allow,” said Dr. Kodia. “We are calling on President William Ruto to take immediate and decisive action to restore sanity in our security systems.”

The bishops warned that unless urgent reforms are undertaken, public trust in the police and investigative bodies will continue to erode, potentially leading to increased civil unrest and disobedience.

The clerics further urged the government to prioritize the protection of human rights and uphold the rule of law, emphasizing that security agencies should serve the people and not instill fear.

Their remarks come at a time when Kenya is witnessing growing criticism of the security forces, especially following a series of deadly crackdowns on protestors and increasing reports of forced disappearances and unlawful detentions.

The bishops reiterated the Church’s position as a voice of the voiceless, vowing to continue speaking out against injustice and advocating for accountability and the dignity of every Kenyan citizen.