National Assembly approves Douglas Kanja's nomination as IG

National Assembly approves Douglas Kanja Kirocho’s nomination as the next Inspector General of Police. [Boniface Okendo, Standard]

The National Assembly has approved Douglas Kanja Kirocho’s nomination as the next Inspector General of Police, with his swearing-in ceremony scheduled for next Thursday at State House.

During the debate on the special motion, Members of Parliament expressed confidence in Kanja’s leadership abilities.

"We need an Inspector General who will step out of air-conditioned offices and address the realities on the ground. From personal experience, I can attest that Mr. Kanja listens to concerns raised by MPs, and I am confident he will deliver,” said Samburu West MP Naisula Lesuda.

In addition to voicing their support, MPs urged Kanja to address the growing issue of enforced abductions and disappearances that have plagued the country in recent times.

“The President has made it clear—he does not want disappearances or impunity. We hope that the new IG will assist the police in solving this,” said Kilifi North MP Owen Baya.

Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo echoed these sentiments, adding, “This is a period marked by unexplained disappearances and abductions. There have been far too many instances of these in recent times.”

Amollo also criticized Acting Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli for his ongoing contempt of court. 

“This nominee [Kanja] is being appointed at a time when the police service is under intense scrutiny, especially for impunity. The acting IG is currently showing complete disregard for the courts,” Amollo said.

During his vetting last month, Kanja vowed to fight corruption in the National Police Service by introducing name tags and body cameras.

Kanja previously served as the Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service and was the Commandant of the General Service Unit (GSU) for five years.

He also held the position of Deputy Commandant of the GSU for three years and was the County Police Commander in charge of Kilifi County.