Kenya Parliament Approves Douglas Kanja as New Inspector General, Sets Reform Agenda

Members of Parliament have unanimously approved the appointment of Mr. Douglas Kanja as the new Inspector General of Police.

This decision sets the stage for his imminent swearing-in ceremony at State House in Nairobi. Lawmakers have articulated a pressing agenda for the incoming Inspector General, emphasizing the need to address enforced disappearances linked to police actions, enhance police conduct during protests, uphold the rule of law, and combat corruption within the force. These longstanding issues have eroded public trust in law enforcement, with Kanja's appointment aimed at helping restore confidence. Kanja will be the sixth Inspector General since the promulgation of Kenya's new Constitution, succeeding Mr Japhet Koome who resigned amid a wave of anti-government protests that highlighted systemic issues within the police service.

The transition occurs against the backdrop of controversy surrounding acting Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli who faced criticism from the judiciary and public for defying court orders and fostering a perception of impunity among officers. During Kanja's vetting process on Wednesday, Members of Parliament lauded his extensive experience in the police force, where he rose from constable to his current senior position. His background as a former commander of the General Service Unit (GSU) is viewed as an asset that will prove invaluable in reforming the police service. However, lawmakers have cautioned him against perpetuating troubling practices, particularly enforced disappearances.

The expectations for Kanja's tenure are high, with MPs emphasizing the need for a leader who operates within the bounds of the law. Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo articulated the sentiment of many, calling for an Inspector General who upholds the law without impunity and ensures accountability in police operations. Similarly, Kilifi North MP Owen Baya urged Kanja to align the police service with President William Ruto's vision for reform. Beyond addressing systemic issues, parliamentarians have stressed the importance of improving the welfare of police officers, especially those in lower ranks who often struggle with access to adequate medical care and allowances.

Minority Leader Junet Mohamed cautioned Kanja against political compromise, emphasizing the importance of protecting all Kenyans' rights to maintain the integrity of the police service. The discussion also touched on Kanja's age, with Majority Chief Whip Sylvanus Osoro defending the 61-year-old's appointment, noting that the Constitution does not stipulate age limits for the role of Inspector General.