President William Ruto has announced the nomination of Douglas Kanja Kirocho as the new Inspector-General of Police.
Kanja currently serving as the Acting Inspector-General, has been nominated for the top position following recommendations from the National Police Service Commission and fills the void left by Outgoing IG Japheth Koome who resigned after the Gen Z protests.
The President also appointed the two Deputy Inspector-Generals, Eliud Kipkoech Lagat: Deputy Inspector General, Kenya Police Service and Gilbert Masengeli: Deputy Inspector General, Administration Police Service.
Pending the parliamentary approval of Kanja’s nomination, President Ruto has designated Gilbert Masengeli as the Acting Inspector-General of the National Police Service.
Masengeli has been the Commander of Administration Police Service’s elite unit, the Special Operations Group (SOG).
This interim measure is in accordance with Section 16 of the National Police Service Act, 2011, ensuring continuity in the NPS leadership.
Kanja’s career in law enforcement spans nearly four decades, during which he has held numerous high-ranking positions, including Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, Commandant of the General Service Unit, and County Police Commander for Kilifi County.
Kanja’s extensive experience also includes roles such as Deputy Commandant of Kenya Airports Police Unit, Chief Armourer at the Police Headquarters, and Deputy Chief Armourer at the Kenya Police Service Headquarters. His career progression reflects a deep commitment to public service and an impressive track record in security management.
The annoucements were communicated by Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service Felix Koskei.
“These leadership changes are crucial for maintaining law and order, and for the ongoing reforms within the NPS aimed at enhancing its efficiency and accountability,” Mr. Koskei stated.
The President’s appointments come as police is being accused of using excessive force and not being responsive policing for all Kenyans.
