Kanja: I am proud inspector general of police service
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has expressed pride in the National Police Service (NPS), praising officers for their commendable work in maintaining national security.
Kanja, speaking during a breakfast with the FKF Premier League champions held at State House on June 24, 2025, noted that police have managed to execute their duties professionally despite ongoing challenges.
You might also like
Kanja acknowledged various challenges, including the recent spate of protests in the country, but lauded the police for remaining firm in their duties.
“I am a very proud IG. The NPS officers are doing commendable work to ensure our country remains safe and secure, despite the many challenges we have been going through,” Kanja said during a celebratory breakfast in honor of Kenya Police FC—the newly crowned 2024/2025 FKF Premier League champions.
President Ruto pledges full support for police service
President William Ruto also lauded the police, insisting that he was also proud of their work. He promised to support them as they assured the country’s safety.
“To IG and the team, you have my 100 percent support in securing this country. No one is above the law. These are our frontline defenders of our rights and the rights of this nation,” Ruto stated.
He acknowledged the complexities facing the nation, including violent protests sparked by economic discontent, as seen in the June 25, 2024, Parliament storming.
Amid controversy, Kanja defends police conduct
Despite these hurdles, Kanja lauded the police for remaining resolute, navigating a delicate balance between public order and human rights. The breakfast, attended by President William Ruto, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, and Raymond Omollo, underscored the NPS’s dual role in security and community engagement through sports.
With the mounting controversies surrounding the National Police Service, including the suspicious death of Albert Ojwang in custody on June 7, 2025, a case that led to stepping aside of DIG Eliud Lagat, the shooting of face mask vendor Boniface Kariuki during protests; and the Mwiki police killings, Kanja has commended the police force for its resilience under intense pressure.
Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher and blogger, died after being arrested in Homa Bay for alleged defamation and transported over 350 km to Nairobi, where an autopsy revealed severe head trauma and neck compression, contradicting initial police claims of self-inflicted injuries. Similarly, Kariuki, was shot in the head at close range on June 17, 2025, during Nairobi protests, sparking outrage as he fights for his life.
Even as public scrutiny intensifies as the 2024 protest anniversary nears, he steadfastly upholds the mandate to maintain law and order, navigating a complex landscape of heightened public scrutiny and rising tensions.
Balancing the need for security with the demands for accountability, he faces intense pressure from both supporters urging decisive action and critics questioning the handling of past unrest. His commitment to stability remains unwavering, yet the spotlight on his leadership grows sharper, with every decision dissected amid calls for transparency and reform. As memories of the previous protests loom large, he strives to foster calm while preparing for potential challenges, knowing the nation’s eyes are fixed on his next move.
The event also celebrated Kenya Police FC’s disciplined campaign under coach Etienne Ndayiragije, with Kanja promising continued backing as they prepare for the CAF Champions League.
As the NPS strives to rebuild its image, this celebration highlights both its achievements and the steep challenges ahead.
