President William Ruto has defended Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja’s presence during his recent tour of Nyeri, dismissing claims that it was politically motivated.
Speaking on Friday, April 4, while handing over Affordable Housing units to police officers, Ruto addressed the controversy, stating that Kanja was simply carrying out his duties and had not attended the event for political reasons.
“Some people are trying to create unnecessary confusion. I was in Nyeri to distribute title deeds to deserving citizens.
The IG was present at the function, yet some people are now vilifying him as if he did something wrong by attending a public service event,” Ruto explained.
LSK Condemns Kanja’s Presence
The debate surrounding Kanja’s appearance intensified after he addressed the crowd during Ruto’s tour.
While speaking, the IG reassured Kenyans that the police force remains committed to upholding law and order without bias, emphasizing that officers serve all citizens equally, regardless of political affiliations.
However, his presence at the event sparked criticism, with some viewing it as inappropriate for a police chief to attend what was perceived as a political gathering.
This prompted the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) to demand that Kanja either issue a public apology or resign.
LSK President Faith Odhiambo argued that Kanja had violated the principles of impartiality expected of the police force, stating that his attendance compromised the independence of the service and could alienate Kenyans with differing political views.
“The IG’s presence and remarks at a politically charged function go against the expectations of neutrality in the police service. This was a serious misjudgment,” LSK stated.
Ruto Defends the Police Chief
President Ruto dismissed these concerns, asserting that the police play a vital role in national development and should not be unfairly targeted.
He also pointed out that security officers regularly accompany government officials, and IG Kanja was simply fulfilling his mandate.
“IG, we will continue working with our security officers to ensure our country is safe and developing. There is no issue here,” Ruto declared.
He further questioned why critics were singling out Kanja when numerous police officers were present at the event.
“At the Nyeri meeting, there were nearly 300 police officers. Why is only the IG being targeted? Every time I visit a region, security personnel are deployed. So, let’s not create problems where none exist,” Ruto remarked.
The National Police Service (NPS) also defended Kanja, clarifying that his presence was in line with his official duties, including providing security for the Head of State during his regional visits.
They cited the National Police Service Act 2011, Section 24, and the NPS Standing Orders, Chapter 7, Section 8, which mandate the IG to oversee security arrangements for the president.
Ruto Dismisses Campaign Allegations
In addition to defending Kanja, Ruto rejected claims that his nationwide tours were disguised political campaigns ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
“I urge leaders in this country to stop viewing everything through a political lens. We have a responsibility to serve Kenyans between election cycles. There is more to governance than just politics,” Ruto said.
“For those who may be confused or misled, let me make it clear: what we are doing is development, not campaigning. We are delivering on the promises we made to Kenyans,” he affirmed.
Ruto’s remarks come at a time when his tours and government activities are being scrutinized, with opposition figures and civil society questioning the intentions behind his engagements.
However, the president has remained firm, insisting that his administration is focused on fulfilling its development agenda.
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