House Committee approves nomination of Douglas Kanja as Police IG

Two joint committees of Parliament have given their approval to President William Ruto’s nomination of Douglas Kanja as the new Inspector General of Police, following the recent resignation of Japhet Koome.

The National Assembly Committee on Administration and Internal Security, along with the Senate Standing Committee on National Security, Defence, and Foreign Relations, endorsed Kanja after a vetting session held last Thursday.

In a report obtained by the Eastleigh Voice, signed by Gabriel Tongoyo and William Cheptuomo, the chairpersons of the respective committees, lawmakers expressed confidence in Kanja’s nomination, citing his satisfactory responses to questions about his suitability for the role.

"The committee, having considered the suitability, competence, experience and integrity of Mr Doughlas Kanja following the approval process and taking into consideration its observations and findings, and pursuant to the provisions of the constitution, Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval), the NPS Act," a report by the joint panel states.

"The National Assembly spanking orders and Senate Standing Orders, recommend that parliament approve the nomination of Douglas Kanja for the appointment of Police IG."

Lawmakers praised Kanja as a seasoned law enforcement officer, whose extensive experience is seen as a significant asset to the country’s policing efforts. However, they also emphasised the need for reforms within the police service.

The committee urged Kanja to prioritise these reforms if his nomination is confirmed.

"We want the police under Article 245 to do their job with professionalism," said Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei.

Inspector General of Police nominee Douglas Kanja takes his oath before vetting by both houses of parliament on August 15, 2024. (Photo: National Assembly)

Nominated Senator Crystal Asige echoed this sentiment, urging Kanja to ensure compliance with court orders within the National Police Service.

“I hope the new IG will take note of the court ruling that has pronounced itself clearly about using live bullets, about police in civilian clothing, and about masked officers,” she said.

Nyamira Senator Okongo Mogeni called for an end to the practice of police officers arresting suspects while masked. “Why should the police arrest people while hiding their faces? Are they thugs? Anyone arresting me should know who that person is, and I should have the right to inform my lawyer. I want Kenyans to be arrested the way Senator Mandago was arrested,” he argued.

Previously, Kanja served as the Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police and the commandant of the General Service Unit.

With the joint committees' endorsement, he now awaits approval by the National Assembly to become the country's new IG. If confirmed, he will take on the role of Inspector General at a time of significant challenges, including resource shortages and low morale within the force.

The proposals are contained in a report by the National Taskforce on Improvement of Terms and Conditions of Service and Other Reforms for Members of the National Police Service, National Youth Service and Kenya Prisons Service.

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has been spearheading efforts to secure funding for these initiatives.

In anticipation of his new role, Kanja has already issued an internal memo urging officers to embrace the proposed reforms.