By Billian Fatima
Inspector General of Police (IG) Douglas Kanja has vehemently dismissed allegations from the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) accusing him of attending a political rally led by President William Ruto in Kieni, Nyeri County. The LSK had earlier raised concerns that Kanja’s presence at the event could be interpreted as an endorsement of a political agenda, thereby compromising the neutrality of the National Police Service (NPS).
In a statement issued by NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, the police force clarified that the IG’s presence in Nyeri was entirely for official duties. Nyaga emphasized that Kanja was overseeing security arrangements during the President’s development tour, a role mandated under the National Police Service Act.
“The NPS categorically refutes these claims and reaffirms the IG’s unwavering commitment to constitutional impartiality in serving all Kenyans, devoid of political bias. At no time has the IG engaged in activities that could undermine the neutrality of his office,” Nyaga stated.
The controversy erupted after LSK President Faith Odhiambo accused IG Kanja of engaging in political puppetry. In a strongly worded statement, Odhiambo argued that the IG’s participation in the Kieni rally was a breach of constitutional principles, suggesting it implied an endorsement of the President’s political agenda.
"The IG’s presence and remarks at the rally compromised the impartiality of the National Police Service, violating both the Constitution and the regulations governing the police service," said Odhiambo. She demanded that Kanja issue a public apology and withdraw from any future political engagements, urging that he refrain from participating in political rallies and discourse in his official capacity.
“We demand an immediate public apology from the Inspector General for his conduct, which is unbecoming of the position he holds. We equally demand that he refrains from engaging in any political mobilization, rallies, and discourse in his official capacity,” Odhiambo added.
Despite the LSK’s accusations, the National Police Service remains firm in its defense of the IG, reiterating that his actions were in line with his duty to ensure security during the President’s tour. The ongoing back-and-forth has raised questions about the perceived political neutrality of law enforcement officials, particularly in light of the highly charged political climate.
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