President William Ruto called upon newly appointed Inspector General (IG) of Police, Douglas Kanja, to ensure the equal application of the law for all citizens, irrespective of their social standing. The President made these remarks on Thursday at State House, Nairobi, during Kanja’s swearing-in ceremony.
The new IG takes over following the resignation of Japeth Koome, who vacated the position on July 12, a day after President Ruto made sweeping changes to his cabinet in response to mounting pressure from Gen Z-led anti-government protests. With Kanja now at the helm of the National Police Service (NPS), he faces the critical task of restoring public confidence in law enforcement amidst growing concerns over police accountability and the rule of law.
Upholding the Rule of Law
President Ruto, while addressing Kanja and the nation, emphasized the critical importance of the police force as an independent institution dedicated to serving the people of Kenya. He urged the new IG to protect the service from undue influence and to ensure that all Kenyan citizens are treated equally before the law.
“As you take over as the Inspector General of Police, it behooves you to protect this police service as an independent institution in the service of the people of Kenya,” Ruto stated. “All citizens must be treated equally before the law.”
The President reiterated that respect for the rule of law is the foundation of Kenya’s democracy, emphasizing that no individual, regardless of status or position, is above the law. “We must obey and submit to it for the stability of our country,” he added, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in their efforts to maintain safety and security across the nation.
Kanja’s Extensive Experience
Douglas Kanja brings to his new role a wealth of experience spanning nearly four decades. He has served in various capacities within the NPS, including as the Director of Operations, Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Commandant of the General Service Unit (GSU), and the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU). His leadership and extensive service across different regions of Kenya, including Nairobi, the Coast, Eastern, and Rift Valley, have earned him a reputation as a seasoned law enforcement officer.
President Ruto acknowledged Kanja’s vast experience and expressed confidence in his ability to steer the police force toward greater accountability and professionalism. The President also reminded Kanja of the weight of his new responsibilities, particularly in ensuring that the NPS operates free from manipulation or intimidation, while maintaining its independence as an institution of service.
“You have the responsibility as the commander and the leader of this institution to protect the National Police Service from any manner of manipulation or intimidation or blackmail from whatever quarter,” Ruto asserted.
Challenges Ahead
Kanja steps into the role of IG at a time when the police service is under intense public scrutiny. His predecessor, Japeth Koome, resigned amidst widespread anti-government protests led by young Kenyans, who have been vocal in their demands for better governance, transparency, and accountability. The police response to these protests, which has been marred by accusations of excessive force, has contributed to growing public distrust in the service.
Adding to the challenges is the ongoing case involving Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Administration Police, Gilbert Masengeli. Masengeli, who had been acting as Police IG following Koome’s resignation, was recently sentenced to six months in jail for contempt of court after failing to respond to multiple court summonses regarding the disappearance of three individuals in Kintengela, allegedly abducted by police officers. Masengeli’s pending legal issues have cast a shadow over the police force, further highlighting the need for a transparent and accountable leadership.
In his remarks, President Ruto indirectly referenced Masengeli’s case, reiterating the importance of respecting legal processes and ensuring that no officer or citizen is shielded from the law. He urged Kanja to foster a culture of accountability within the police force, where officers are held to the same standards as the citizens they serve.
Conclusion
Douglas Kanja’s appointment as Inspector General of Police marks a pivotal moment for the National Police Service. With his extensive experience and President Ruto’s backing, Kanja is tasked with restoring public confidence in law enforcement by ensuring that the rule of law prevails. The challenges ahead are significant, but if Kanja can uphold the principles of fairness and equality, he has the opportunity to lead the NPS into a new era of transparency and professionalism.
As President Ruto aptly put it, “All of us are equal before the law.” It is now Kanja’s responsibility to make sure this ideal becomes a reality for every Kenyan citizen.
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