Police IG Douglas Kanja’s father laid to rest in emotional ceremony

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja led family, friends, and dignitaries in paying their final respects to his father, the late Mzee Weston Kirocho Kanja, who was laid to rest in an emotional ceremony held at Lechungu Village, Laikipia County.

The ceremony, held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, drew a large gathering of mourners, including President William Ruto and senior government officials, who joined the family in honouring the life of a man remembered for his discipline, humility, and deep commitment to family values.

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During the ceremony, IG Kanja reflected on his father’s legacy, describing him as a man who embodied integrity, respect, and resilience.

“He taught us the virtues of integrity and the value of respecting others. Hard work was something he never stopped reminding us about, and that is why we mourn him deeply. He has left behind a stable and forward-looking family,” he said.

He noted that his father was a strong believer in hard work and perseverance, and that his teachings had shaped the family’s values and outlook on life.

Kanja recalled how his father often reminded him to remain steadfast and forward-looking even during difficult moments, a philosophy that continues to guide him to this day.

“He instilled in us great values and was always a strong believer that we should never give up. Above all, he often told me, even in the most difficult times, that I should always remain forward-looking, never backward,” Kanja added.

Mzee Weston Kirocho Kanja, who died at the age of 85, was described by family members as a pillar of wisdom and a devoted patriarch who valued faith, unity, and education.

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His passing marked the end of an era for a family that has long been rooted in community service and leadership.

Although Mzee Kanja passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, news of his death only became public six days later, on Monday, October 20.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed his passing through a condolence message shared online, with DCI Director Mohamed Amin visiting the Inspector General’s home to deliver personal sympathies on behalf of the entire DCI fraternity.

“This evening, the Director of Criminal Investigations, Mr. Mohamed Amin, visited the Inspector General of the National Police Service, Mr. Douglas Kanja, MGH, CBS, OGW, to offer his condolences following the passing of his father, Mzee Weston Kirocho Kanja, on October 14, 2025,” DCI wrote.

Mzee Kanja is survived by his wives, Jedidah Wanjiku and Catherine Wanjiku, and several children.

Born to the late Kanja Irimu and Millicent Gathigia, Mzee Kanja was also a brother to the late Douglas Irimu, the late Major Wilson Munene, the late Cecelia Hiuko, the late Veronica Kang’ang’i, and the late Piety Beatrice Wakiuru.

His death came just a day before that of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whose passing on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, following a cardiac arrest in India, drew global attention.