The presence of the Inspector-General of Police at President William Ruto’s political rallies during his ongoing tour of Mt Kenya has sparked criticism, with accusations of political involvement by security officials. Mr. Japhet Kanja, the Inspector-General, is the latest security chief to face backlash for seeming to engage in political matters.
This follows remarks made by Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri last week, in which he warned against the ‘Ruto must go’ campaign, emphasizing that leadership change must adhere to constitutional processes.
General Kahariri made these comments during a public lecture at the National Intelligence and Research University in Nairobi, where National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director-General Nooradin Haji also highlighted the growing divisiveness in Kenyan politics, especially online.
On Tuesday, Mr. Kanja, while in his official uniform, attended a political rally in Kieni, Nyeri County, alongside President Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. This has raised concerns about the political neutrality of his office. Mr. Kanja, who was invited to speak by Prof. Kindiki, addressed the crowd in Kikuyu, asking if they were happy to see the President and whether they wanted him to return.
In response, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and political figures have expressed alarm over what they see as a troubling trend of security officials becoming involved in politics. They have called for Mr. Kanja to resign if he wishes to engage in partisan politics.
However, Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga defended Mr. Kanja’s presence at the rally, stating that his participation was part of his official duties, which include overseeing security arrangements during the President’s development tour.
Nyaga clarified that the Presidential Escort Unit (PEU) is tasked with protecting the President and other dignitaries, under the Inspector-General’s direction. Since mid-March, Mr. Kanja has been touring various counties, including Baringo, Samburu, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Laikipia, and Meru, on official business.
Nyaga emphasized that the National Police Service (NPS) stands by the Inspector-General’s impartiality, affirming that he has not engaged in any political activities that would compromise the neutrality of his office. He reiterated that Mr. Kanja remains committed to his constitutional duties and will continue to perform them professionally without political bias.
In response, LSK President Faith Odhiambo demanded an apology from Mr. Kanja for his “unbecoming conduct,” arguing that it could undermine the integrity of the police service.
She further called for Mr. Kanja to refrain from engaging in political rallies or discourse in his official capacity. Odhiambo emphasized that the Inspector-General’s role is too important to be distracted by political involvement and urged him to step aside if he wishes to participate in partisan politics.
“Are you happy to see our President here? Do you want him to We demand that Mr Kanja forth with withdraws and restrains from engaging in any political mobilisation, rallies and/or discourse especially in his official capacity” Faith Odhiambo, LSK president
LSK’s statement also referenced Article 245(1) of the Constitution, which ensures the Inspector-General’s independent command over the National Police Service and requires him to act impartially.
Additionally, the Leadership and Integrity Act, 2012, prohibits state officers from engaging in political activities that could compromise their neutrality.
