IG Kanja: Honored to Lead the Police Service Amid Challenges and Change
President Ruto reiterated his full support for the NPS, underscoring the critical role police play in maintaining order and defending democratic freedoms.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja. Photo/Eastleigh Voice.
By Juliet Jerotich
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has expressed deep pride in leading the National Police Service (NPS), praising officers for their unwavering dedication and professionalism during a period marked by national tension and complex challenges.
Speaking at a State House breakfast hosted by President William Ruto to celebrate Kenya Police FC’s FKF Premier League championship win, Kanja commended the force’s resilience and discipline in safeguarding the country.
“I am a proud Inspector General,” he said. “Our officers have shown exceptional courage and responsibility in fulfilling their duty to protect Kenyans, even under immense pressure.”
Kanja acknowledged the difficult environment in which the police have operated—including during widespread protests—but emphasized that officers have remained committed to their constitutional mandate while working to uphold human rights.
President Ruto reiterated his full support for the NPS, underscoring the critical role police play in maintaining order and defending democratic freedoms.
“You have my total support,” the President said. “No one is above the law. The police are the custodians of our liberty and the guardians of our national order.”
The event also spotlighted the NPS’s broader engagement with the public through sports, as Kenya Police FC—coached by Etienne Ndayiragije—prepares to represent the country in the CAF Champions League. Kanja vowed continued backing for the team, reflecting the service’s commitment to community development beyond policing.
However, the celebration took place under the shadow of growing controversy surrounding police conduct. The NPS has come under intense scrutiny following several high-profile incidents, including the death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang while in custody, the shooting of protester Boniface Kariuki, and the Mwiki police shootings.
Ojwang, 31, was arrested in Homa Bay over alleged defamation and later died in Nairobi police custody. An autopsy revealed severe head injuries and neck trauma, raising serious questions about police claims of suicide. In another troubling case, Kariuki, a street vendor, was shot in the head during anti-government demonstrations on June 17 and remains in critical condition.
These incidents have fueled national outrage and amplified demands for transparency and accountability, especially as the anniversary of the 2024 protests nears. With public trust in the NPS at stake, Kanja now faces the urgent task of restoring confidence in the institution while maintaining order in a politically sensitive climate.
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