Ruto directs new police IG Douglas Kanja to shield NPS from manipulation

President William Ruto has directed newly appointed Inspector General of the National Police Service (NPS) Douglas Kanja to safeguard the independence of the police force and shield it from external manipulation as he takes over.

Kanja, who was sworn in for a four-year term, succeeds Japhet Koome, who resigned in July. He becomes the fifth Inspector General since the promulgation of the new Constitution, and the 16th police boss since 1964.

In his address during the swearing-in ceremony on Thursday, President Ruto emphasised the importance of the Inspector General's role in maintaining the NPS's independence and ensuring it operates free from external manipulation.

He urged Kanja to uphold the integrity of the police force and ensure equal treatment for all citizens under the law.

“Today, we witness yet another occasion when our National Police Service is granted a new commander. I want to tell the NPS that in Mr Kanja, you have a seasoned leader, a disciplined career police officer, and a dedicated Kenyan. I have faith and I believe in the capabilities of Kanja to provide leadership to the men and women in the police service,” he said.

“Kanja, as you take over as the Inspector General of Police, it behoves you to protect this police service as an independent institution in the service of the people of Kenya, making sure that all citizens are treated equally before the law. You have the responsibility as the commander to protect the NPS from any manner of manipulation, intimidation or blackmail and to ensure that all of us respect the laws of the land without status or any form of entitlement. All of us are equal before the law.”

The President said the government is committed to supporting the NPS through enhanced human capital, equipment, legislative support, and policy measures.

“It is the responsibility of our security forces to ensure that there is safety and security for human life and property.  The government of Kenya will go out of its way to continue to facilitate both in terms of human capital, equipment, legislative, and other policy support to enable our security forces to provide security, safety and stability,” he said.

He noted that efforts are underway to address the needs of security forces, including improving terms of service, welfare issues, and the provision of necessary tools and equipment to effectively combat crime and ensure national security.

“I want to commit that we will continue to look at the terms of service and all other requirements of our security agencies both human capital, welfare issues, the kind of tools and equipment they need to be able to efficiently keep our country safe and secure and protect us from criminals, crooks and terrorists,” Ruto said.

While approving Kanja on Wednesday, Members of Parliament said the former GSU commander was the best candidate for the job with his wealth of experience in the service, having risen from a constable to his current position.

The lawmakers added that during his vetting, Kanja appeared to be well-versed in security matters and had practical solutions to strengthen safety in the country.