Kenya's New Government Spokesperson Charles Owino Faces Scrutiny Over Past Remarks

Charles Owino, a former spokesperson for the National Police Service known for his combative defense of the institution, has been appointed as Kenya's new government spokesperson. The Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, announced the transition, moving Owino to the executive office of the President.

Owino's return to a high-profile state messaging role has revived memories of his controversial statements. These include remarks that appeared to justify police excesses following the death of a hawker during the Gen Z protests anniversary and support for a "shoot-to-kill" order during a wave of protests. For years, he shielded the police force from public criticism over brutality and extrajudicial killings.

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During his tenure, we should expect his statements to be skewed in defence of the government. It’s not that he is coming into this position to give us the reality of situations as they are.

With President William Ruto's administration facing scrutiny over handling protests, police conduct, and economic policies, Owino's appointment is under a spotlight. Pundits and security experts like George Musamali express doubt about his impartiality. Musamali argues the appointment was driven by "political bias" rather than merit, predicting Owino will defend the government rather than present objective reality. He also noted Owino's past political ambitions, having sought a gubernatorial seat before returning to public service after losing the election.

Critics like Musamali fear that placing a politician in such a sensitive role compromises transparency. Owino's history of defending state and police actions has previously drawn public ire, leading to questions about whether he will adhere to his familiar playbook of institutional defense or serve with the impartiality expected of a government spokesperson.

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I am afraid because we are now getting politicians into very sensitive spaces. When he resigned as the police service spokesperson, he did so wanting to contest for the Siaya gubernatorial seat, but the minute he lost, he came back to public service. This should tell you something.