Police deny IG's political rally attendance amid LSK criticism

Inpsector General of Police Douglas Kanja at a past event. [File, Standard]

The National Police Service (NPS) has refuted claims that Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja attended a political rally in Kieni, Nyeri County, amid mounting pressure from the Law Society of Kenya (LSK).

In a press statement, Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga dismissed allegations raised by LSK, which had demanded either an apology or the resignation of the IG for allegedly participating in a political event led by President William Ruto.

"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 police insist that Kanja's presence in Nyeri was strictly within his official duties, which included overseeing security arrangements during the President's development tour.

"A core mandate of the NPS, under Section 24 of the National Police Service Act, 2011, and the NPS Standing Orders Chapter 7, Section 8, assigns the Presidential Escort Unit the legal duty of protecting the President, visiting dignitaries, and other designated VIPs under the direction of the Inspector General of Police," the spokesperson added.

However, LSK President Faith Odhiambo maintained that the IG's actions compromised his constitutional obligation to remain politically neutral.

"We must point out that the Inspector-General has a constitutional obligation to serve all Kenyans impartially, regardless of political affiliation. We are apprehensive that the events in Nyeri amounted to a political gimmick, which could inadvertently alienate parts of the population with differing political views," Odhiambo stated.

In a livestream on Dr Ruto's official Facebook page, as well as the State House Kenya's official YouTube channel that The Standard saw, Kanja, in official regalia, was seen addressing a crowd in Kieni, Nyeri County on Tuesday.