In a decisive move towards transforming the National Police Service, the nominee for Inspector General of Police, Mr. Douglas Kanja Kirocho, assured Kenyans of his commitment to enhancing national security during his vetting before a joint parliamentary committee. With an impressive 39 years of service under his belt, Kanja laid out a robust plan to address critical issues plaguing the police force and the nation.
In his address, Kanja emphasized the urgent need to tackle the persistent challenge of cattle rustling, promising to leverage advanced technology and strategic measures to eradicate the crime, which has increasingly become commercialized. His extensive experience, he asserted, uniquely positions him to implement effective solutions that have long eluded the service.
Responding to the pressing concerns of police brutality and extrajudicial killings, Kanja took a firm stance, vowing to uphold the Constitution and ensure that any officer found guilty of misconduct faces the full force of the law. “Extrajudicial killings are illegal, and I will ensure the Police Service operates within the framework of the Constitution,” he declared.
Kanja also highlighted his plans to bolster the number of National Police Reservists, recognizing their vital role in maintaining security in local communities. Additionally, he addressed the Kenya Police Mission in Haiti, celebrating the mission’s success in restoring essential services such as hospitals, schools, and airports, and the positive reception by the Haitian population.
Tackling corruption head-on, Kanja committed to eliminating conflicts of interest within the police force and implementing strategic measures to address long-standing issues like unfair transfers and promotions. He also pledged to reform the use of police roadblocks, ensuring they are only set up when necessary, with improved communication to the public.
On the critical issues of human trafficking and drug smuggling, Kanja assured lawmakers of his intent to collaborate with key stakeholders, including the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), to combat these vices effectively.
In a heartfelt appeal, Kanja urged Parliament to allocate additional funds to improve the welfare of police officers, a critical component of his reform agenda.
Mr. Douglas Kanja Kirocho, aged 60, was nominated by President William Ruto on July 25, 2024. His nomination is now under review by the joint parliamentary committee, with a report expected by August 20, 2024, determining his fate as the next Inspector General of the National Police Service. If approved, Kanja’s leadership promises to usher in a new era of accountability, efficiency, and security for all Kenyans.
