The National Police Service (NPS) has defended Inspector General Douglas Kanja after he attracted criticism following his appearance at a Nyeri political meeting attended by President William Ruto.
NPS has said that Kanja’s appearance at the said meeting does not in any way undermine the principle of impartiality required of the IG’s office, as argued by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK).
“The National Police Service (NPS) has noted with concern a press statement by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) alleging that the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Douglas Kanja, attended a political rally in Kieni, Nyeri County. NPS categorically refutes these claims and reaffirms the IG’s unwavering commitment to constitutional impartiality in serving all Kenyans, devoid of political bias.
“At no time has the IG engaged in activities that could undermine the neutrality of his office. The IG’s presence in Nyeri was strictly in line with his official duties, including oversight of security arrangements during the President’s development tour, a core mandate of the NPS under Section 24 of the National Police Service Act, 2011, and the NPS Standing Orders Chapter 7, Section 8,” the NPS statement read.
Functions
NPS highlighted key functions under the IG’s office, which they say Kanja was undertaking then.
“The Presidential Escort Unit (PEU) is legally tasked with protecting the President, visiting dignitaries, and other designated VIPs under the direction of the Inspector General of Police.
“Since mid-March 2025, the Inspector General of Police has been on an operational tour across Baringo, Samburu, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Laikipia, and Meru Counties, focusing on impromptu inspections of police stations, welfare, mental health, financial prudence for officers, encouraging the enhancement of ICT skills to align with the digitization of police services, reaffirming the Reform Agenda, and the success of Operation Maliza Uhalifu in the North Rift.
“Earlier, the IG and the CS Interior assessed progress in Loruk (Baringo) and Kirimon (Laikipia), where they commended the officers for restoring security in bandit-prone areas. NPS urges the public to disregard the misleading assertions, as it remains apolitical and committed to the mandate of maintaining law and order,” the statement concluded.