Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome on Friday caused a storm when he slammed Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) for criticizing police work.
Koome called the authority “busybody” as both he and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki urged officers to use their firearms to defend citizens.
They spoke at the memorial of 57 police officers so far killed while at work this year.
The two officials said police are allowed to use guns to protect lives and property.
The remarks sparked protests from the human rights community which termed them unfortunate.
IPOA is a constitutional body that investigates police misconduct.
The two are seen to be irked by recent actions by IPOA to take action on police misconduct.
Dozens of police officers are facing various cases in court.
They include Eastleigh-based, Ahmed Rashid who is being defended by many.