President William Ruto has officially nominated Douglas Kanja as the new Inspector General of Police. This move comes following the resignation of Japhet Koome on July 12, 2024, and Kanja’s subsequent appointment as acting Inspector General.
Douglas Kanja’s nomination marks a pivotal moment in his illustrious career, which spans over four decades in the police force. Beginning his career in 1985, Kanja has climbed the ranks to reach the pinnacle of the National Police Service. His extensive experience includes key roles such as Deputy Commandant of the General Service Unit, County Police Commander of Kilifi County, and Deputy Commandant of the Kenya Airports Police Unit. He has also held critical positions such as Chief Armourer at the Police Headquarters and Deputy Chief Armourer at the Kenya Police Service Headquarters.
The nomination of Kanja reflects a deep-rooted belief in his capability and experience, as noted by Felix Koskei, the Head of Public Service. Koskei highlighted that Kanja is a seasoned police officer with a cumulative service period of thirty-nine years, complemented by extensive security-related training both domestically and internationally. This extensive background positions Kanja as a highly qualified candidate to lead the police force through its evolving challenges.
The nomination also comes with significant changes in the deputy leadership of the police service. Eliud Kipkoech Langat has been appointed as the Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, while Gilbert Masengeli has been named Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service. These appointments are expected to bring new perspectives and operational efficiency to the respective branches of the police force.
As part of the appointment process, Kanja’s nomination is subject to vetting by both Houses of Parliament. Until this process is completed, Gilbert Masengeli will serve as the acting Inspector General. This interim arrangement ensures continuity in leadership and operations within the police force as the formal vetting proceeds.
The appointment of Douglas Kanja as Inspector General signifies a strategic move to bolster the leadership of Kenya’s police service. His extensive experience and service record are expected to play a crucial role in addressing the complex security issues facing the country. The new leadership team under Kanja’s guidance aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the police force, ensuring it meets the demands of modern law enforcement and public safety.
The transition in leadership comes at a crucial time for Kenya, as the nation continues to grapple with various security challenges. Kanja’s extensive background in security operations and his previous roles provide a solid foundation for tackling these issues with a strategic and informed approach.
As the vetting process progresses, the focus will be on how Kanja’s vision and leadership will shape the future of Kenya’s police service. His appointment is anticipated to bring both continuity and innovation to the role, contributing positively to the overall security landscape in the country.
