Kenyans continue to express optimism about a fresh working relationship with the likelihood that Mr. Douglas Kanja Kirocho, a soft-spoken, knowledgeable and intelligent man from the slopes of Mt. Kenya, is poised to become the next Inspector General of Police.
This follows his successful vetting by the Senate’s Committee on Security, pending his appointment by President William Ruto in the coming weeks.
Kanja, who has no presence on social media, gained public attention during the recent Gen Z demonstrations when he cordially yet decisively addressed concerns about how police officers responded to unarmed protesters and struck an unusual people-driven approach.
Despite his soft-spoken demeanor, Kanja demonstrated his ability to command and mobilize forces effectively and yet speaking to the people’s right to picket, countering the expectations of those accustomed to more brutal police leadership.
In a nation that has grown accustomed to police chiefs who issue loud commands with minimal results, Douglas Kanja Kirocho has proven to be a different breed, and the Senate vetting Committee took note of that fact.
His expertise in security strategies, planning, and maneuvers has left many wondering where he has been all along, especially given Kenya’s recent history of security challenges, including the 2022 unrest during the “Bonas of Kenya” incident.
Those familiar with Kanja describe him as a calm and humble officer who listens intently before implementing what he has learned.
All the same, Parliament’s National Security Committee, overwhelmingly endorsed Kanja as fit for the role.
“The committee, having considered the suitability, competence, experience, and integrity of Mr. Douglas Kanja during the approval process, and after taking into account its observations and findings, pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution and the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, recommends that Parliament approve the nomination of Douglas Kanja for the position of Inspector General of Police,” stated a report by the panel.
During the debate on Kanja’s nomination, Senators praised him as an experienced police officer but also challenged him to implement reforms and improve the image of the National Police Service.
“We want the police, under Article 245, to carry out their duties with professionalism,” said Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei.
Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua added,
“As we wish Douglas Kanja well in his service, we remind him of a few things. Following the enactment of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, the police force was transformed into a service, and under that service, we established the office of the Inspector General of Police.”
In what would certainly be a historic chapter, Kenyans are enthusiastic as Kenya get ready to roll his sleeves and ensure a wananchi-conscious police service works for, and not against, Kenyans.
