Kenyan filmmaker and storyteller Abel Mutua has clarified his controversial remarks about Kenya’s Constitution after his comments sparked heated debate online.
Mutua faced criticism after comparing the Constitution to “tissue” during an appearance on the Kisiangani Podcast on Thursday, September 24, 2026. He argued that the document does not adequately protect ordinary Kenyans when they face serious problems within the justice system.
Abel Mutua Explains What He Meant
In his clarification on Friday, September 25, 2026, Mutua explained that his comments were rooted in frustration with what he considers deep problems within Kenya’s institutions.
He argued that powerful political and criminal networks have found ways to exploit loopholes within the system. Mutua pointed to cases where suspects are arrested and later released on bail. He claimed that, in some cases, witnesses subsequently disappear.
His comments were presented as an argument about how the system operates in practice, rather than simply an attack on the existence of the Constitution.
Why Mutua Mentioned Suspending the Constitution
Mutua also clarified his controversial proposal to temporarily suspend the Constitution. He said a leader committed to Kenya’s interests could use that brief period to act against corruption and criminal networks.
In his original remarks, Mutua suggested suspending the Constitution for “five minutes” before restoring it. He argued that this would give such a leader room to tackle what he described as deep systemic problems.
However, the proposal has drawn criticism from Kenyans who oppose any move that could weaken constitutional safeguards.
Kenya’s Constitution limits state power and protects citizens’ rights. Courts have also affirmed that public officials must exercise power within the Constitution and the law.
Mutua’s Comments Spark Wider Debate
Mutua’s comments have sparked a wider debate about Kenya’s justice system, corruption and constitutional protections.
Some Kenyans see his remarks as frustration with how state institutions work. Others warn that suspending constitutional safeguards could expose citizens to greater risks.
The debate now centres on a key question: Does Kenya need constitutional changes, or better enforcement of the laws already in place?
