Police IG nominee Kanja declares Sh46 million net worth amid scrutiny

Douglas Kanja, the Inspector General of Police nominee, has stated that he is worth Sh 46 million.

In response to an inquiry from Narok West Member of Parliament Gabriel Tongoyo about his net worth, Kanja stated that the wealth is distributed in the form of land, two houses, one in Nairobi and the other in his rural home in Nyeri, as well as income from farming and salaries.

"My worth now is around  Sh 46 million. It's in the form of land, I'm a farmer, I have agricultural activities, a house in Nairobi, another in my rural home and of course my salaries, that is it," he said.

Some committee members said the value quoted does not match the properties given and pushed the nominee to declare the location of his Nairobi house.

"My house is at Kamiti Corner, it's a stand-alone," Kanja explained.

In his final remarks, Kanja said if allowed to serve, he would do so diligently and in strict adherence to the rule of law, a trait he said has earned him major feats through his career as a policeman and favour amongst his seniors.

"I am stricter to the constitution, I and my officers will operate within the confines of our constitution. That is something I want to undertake and promise the people of Kenya," he said.

He added that during his career as a police officer, he has stepped foot in every village in the country, which gives him a proper outlook of the country and its security needs.

"I'm a highly experienced officer exposed in many areas. I have worked in Boni, I have saved Kenyans when in serious trouble, I was here in Dusit when there was serious trouble, I did it and I'm ready to do it again, to come to the defence of our country when called upon to," he said.

He further assured Kenyans that he would ensure they have adequate security to conduct their daily tasks.

Kanja stated that the implementation of Justice Maraga reforms began last month with a rise in phase one of police salaries.

He also stated that the process of obtaining the new general duty uniform has begun, but that until financing is allocated, the combat uniforms will remain unchanged.

"The blue uniform worn by general duty officers in urban areas will change, what is remaining is the rollout once the funds are available," he said.

He also said the internal disciplinary unit of the service will be tasked with investigating police conduct during the recent Gen Z protests that claimed over 60 lives mainly in Nairobi.

"Every police excess is subject to inquiry and we have oversight bodies including the IPOA. I know a number are already ongoing and I'd like it addressed to the logical conclusion," he said.

Senator William Cheptumo, the co-chair of the vetting committee of both houses confessed that he is amongst the people who regret the approval of former IG Japhet Koome.

Cheptumo pleaded with Kanja to live by his word in upholding the rule of law and visiting areas suffering from security challenges to get a first-hand understanding of the problem.

"When the former IG appeared before us, he gave us a lot of hope. Actually, as Baringo Senator, I felt things will change and I believe also Kenyans were very hopeful and our members here but the person we saw and listened to, could not even visit the battleground."

"I want to plead with you, that if you are approved; this very clear expression of confidence, assurances during vetting time and thereafter, I want you to live by your expressions," implored Senator Cheptumo.