A police officer reported to be absent without official leave (AWOL) is said to be linked to the upcoming by-election.
According to an internal communication dated October 30, 2025, the officer is alleged to be seeking an elective position.
The circular, addressed to several police departments, noted that attempts to reach the officer had been unsuccessful.
Police officers are legally required to seek formal discharge before engaging in political activities or vying for public office.
“Please be informed that there is credible information that (name withheld), who is on AWOL (absent without leave), is vying for MCA...in the upcoming by-election," the report reads in part.
"Efforts to reach him through calls remain futile."
The police further noted that action would be taken against the officer in accordance with Section 94(1) of the National Police Service Act once he is traced or reports back to duty.
The section prescribes disciplinary measures for officers absent without leave, including dismissal.
It stipulates that an officer who misses duty for more than 21 days without just cause is deemed to have deserted the Service.
"A police officer who absents himself from duty without leave or just cause for a period exceeding 21 days shall, unless the contrary is proved, be considered to have deserted from the Service," it states.
It further allows for arrest without a warrant and provides penalties of summary dismissal, a fine, or a jail term.
Upon reasonable suspicion that any police officer has deserted the Service, any police officer may arrest the particular officer without a warrant, and present him before a magistrate having jurisdiction in the area in which such person deserted or was arrested, it says.
"Any police officer who deserts from the Service commits an offence and is liable on conviction to summary dismissal or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or to a fine not exceeding Sh100,000," it states.
The development now sparks discussion within law enforcement circles and the public, especially regarding police officers' participation in politics.
Under Kenyan law, serving police officers are barred from engaging in partisan political activity unless they resign or retire from service before contesting public office.
Senior officers familiar with the matter confirmed that disciplinary mechanisms would follow due process, including immediate stoppage of salary.
Once the 21-day period lapses without his appearance, the police headquarters will proceed to issue a warrant of arrest.
The case now adds to the growing scrutiny over public servants joining politics without formally exiting their roles, particularly within the disciplined services.
