Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

- Jackson Kuria, commonly known as Cop Shakur, has called for significant constitutional amendments to reduce President William Ruto's powers.

According to Kuria, the unprecedented changes to the constitution would enhance the effectiveness of Kenya's governance.

The prison officer, who was suspended after participating in 2024's anti-government protests, is pushing for reforms that would create greater independence for key government positions.

In an interview with K24, Kuria argued that certain powers currently held by the president, particularly the appointment of influential positions like the Interior Cabinet secretary, the chief justice, and the director of public prosecutions (DPP), should be taken away to prevent undue influence.

"There are amendments we should make to the constitution. We should not give the president the power to appoint the minister of Interior, the power to appoint chief justice, and the power to appoint the DPP because what he's doing is appointing his friends," Kuria claimed.

He highlighted concerns over the apparent conflict of interest, suggesting that such appointments allow the president to interfere in the justice system.

Kuria claimed that the current setup, if not changed, enables the Interior CS to influence the judicial processes.

"Like for now, if the minister of Interior wants a case to go to court, it will quickly pass through the DPP. I can see why they're trying to intimidate Martha Koome because they haven’t bought her yet. If we make that change, we will be moving forward," he added.

Kuria's criticisms stem from a deep-seated concern about the justice system and the rights of the Kenyan people.

Despite his suspension, which came after his involvement in anti-government protests, Kuria has made it clear that his fight is not over.

He stated that he views his position as a platform to amplify the voices of those who feel silenced by the political establishment.

"I joined the prison department to serve people and I've realised that I can be of more benefit to the country outside of being a prison warden. I can speak about our constitution and people listen," he noted.

Earlier, following his arrest, the prison warden took to social media to seek financial assistance to raise money for his bail.

He claimed that Directorate of Criminal Investigation officers had taken his phone and denied him the right to make a call.

Cop Shakur publicly shared his phone number and a pay bill as he sought support from compassionate Kenyans.

Source: TUKO.co.ke