Acting IG Gilbert Masengeli Seeks to Overturn Contempt Conviction
By THE DISPATCH DIGITAL REPORTER
Acting Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli has made an urgent appeal to the court to overturn his recent contempt of court conviction, arguing that his absence from crucial hearings was due to urgent security operations.
Masengeli was found in contempt of court after failing to appear at hearings on September 5 and 9, 2024. In his defense, Masengeli stated that he was unable to attend because he was directly involved in managing critical security responses to militia attacks and other imminent threats that required his immediate presence and oversight. He emphasized that these operations were essential to maintain national security and public safety, leaving him no choice but to prioritize his duties as the Acting Inspector General.
Masengeli’s appeal seeks to have the court recognize the legitimacy of his absence, pointing to the urgent nature of the security threats that necessitated his direct involvement. The application reflects his stance that his failure to appear in court was not out of disregard but rather a necessary decision in the face of critical national security concerns.
The court’s decision on Masengeli’s application could set a significant precedent for balancing judicial processes with the demands of high-level security responsibilities.
