Senate approves appointment of Douglas Kanja as police IG

Douglas Kanja Kirocho nominee for the position of Inspector-General of the National Police Service during the vetting process by the Joint Parliamentary Security Committee.[Boniface Okendo, Standard]

On Tuesday, August 20, Senate approved Douglas Kanja's nomination as Inspector General of Police, following a recommendation by the Joint Parliamentary Security Committee.

The Committees in their report highlighted Kanja's suitability and competency for the role of IG of Police.

"The Committees having considered the suitability, competence, experience, and integrity of Douglas Kanja Kirocho, and in accordance with the National Assembly Standing Orders and the Senate Standing Orders, recommend that Parliament approve his nomination for appointment as Inspector General of the National Police Service," read the statement in parts.

During the debate on the motion, several lawmakers, including Majority Leader Senator Aaron Cheruiyot, stressed the importance of Kanja serving with professionalism.

They called on him to address critical issues within the police service, such as officers' welfare, the shortage of security vehicles, corruption and conflicts of interest.

Kanja now awaits approval from the National Assembly, after which his nomination will be forwarded to President William Ruto for final appointment and swearing-in.

He will succeed Japhet Koome, the first Inspector General under Ruto's administration.