President William Ruto has urged newly sworn-in Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to ensure that the National Police Service (NPS) operates independently and is free from any form of intimidation, manipulation, or blackmail.
Speaking from the State House on Monday, September 19, 2024, after the swearing-in ceremony, President Ruto emphasized the need for equal treatment of all citizens under the law, regardless of their status or position.
“As you take over as the Inspector General of the police, protect this police service as an independent institution in the service of the people of Kenya, making sure that all citizens are treated equally before the law.”
The Head of State stressed the crucial responsibility Kanja carries in shielding the police from external pressures.
“You have the responsibility as the Commander to protect the NPS from any manner of manipulation, intimidation, or blackmail and to ensure that all of us respect the laws of the land without status or any form of entitlement. All of us are equal before the law,” the President added.
Ruto has termed Kanja as a seasoned leader, a disciplined career police officer and a dedicated Kenyan.
“The rule of law is the bedrock of our democracy. We must obey and submit to it for the stability of our country. We will continue supporting our security agencies to keep Kenya safe and secure. In Mr Kanja, we have a seasoned leader; a disciplined career police officer and a dedicated Kenyan. I have faith in his capability to provide leadership to the National Police Service,” Ruto said.
Ruto also pledged his administration’s commitment to providing the necessary resources for the police to maintain safety and security in the country.
“I want to commit that we will continue to look at the terms of service and all other requirements of our security agencies both human capital, welfare issues, the kind of tools and equipment they need to efficiently keep our country safe and secure and protect us from criminals, crooks, and terrorists.”
Kanja was appointed Inspector General following the National Assembly’s ratification of his appointment. He succeeds Acting Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli, who will now resume his duties as Deputy Inspector General.
