Good work! IG Kanja rates performance of Kenya police service 8 out of 10
By William Muthama, November 22, 2025Inspector General Douglas Kanja has rated the Kenya Police Service 8 out of 10, praising the force’s overall performance while acknowledging areas that need improvement.
Speaking in a TV interview on Friday, November 21, 2025, the police defended, citing Kenya’s relative safety despite isolated incidents that have raised concern.
“When we talk about performance, our country is safe and secure from north to south, east to west. People leave their homes in the morning, go about their duties, and return safely in the evening. That is a good measure of the service we are delivering,” Kanja said.
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Kenya has seen a year marked by widespread demonstrations and multiple reports of police brutality. Human rights groups, including the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), have documented several fatalities and injuries.
According to KNCHR, 16 people died in protests on June 25, while 31 died during the Saba Saba demonstrations on July 7, with over 400 others injured in clashes with security forces.
Cases such as the deaths of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody in June and mask vendor Boniface Kariuki, which intensified public concern and drew scrutiny from both local and international observers.
However, the IG did not ignore public unease over police conduct. He acknowledged that some Kenyans fear visiting police stations due to fatal incidents in custody, noting that even one death is one too many.
“A police station should be a safe place. Any incident leading to loss of life must be investigated thoroughly, and those responsible must face the law,” he said.
Kanja referenced several cases, including deaths in custody, and stressed that while these are isolated, they remain serious.
“If someone is arrested for wrongdoing, they should face justice through the courts, not end up in the grave. That is why trust in the police is vital and must be rebuilt continuously,” he said.
The IG emphasised ongoing investments in the police service, including training, equipment, and facility improvements, aiming to make stations “centres of excellence”. He urged continued reform to enhance professionalism, accountability, and public confidence.
“Despite some small challenges, the Kenya Police continue to ensure that citizens can live safely and go about their daily lives,” Kanja said. “We are committed to improving the service and making it more trustworthy for every Kenyan.”