The government has reaffirmed the neutrality of the Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja following concerns over his presence during President William Ruto’s development tour in Nyeri.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura clarified that the IG’s role was strictly within his official mandate, ensuring the smooth coordination of security and public order, as provided for under the National Police Service Act, 2011.
“The Inspector General’s presence in Nyeri was in line with his official duties. His remarks during engagements in his home area were focused solely on the significance of the President’s visit and its successful execution, without reference to political parties or competitive politics,” Mwaura stated.
He further noted that since mid-March 2025, the IG has been conducting an operational tour across Baringo, Samburu, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Laikipia and Meru Counties.
These visits, he explained, have focused on impromptu inspections and strengthening law enforcement operations, reinforcing the IG’s commitment to professionalism and impartiality.
Mwaura emphasized that the presence of security heads during presidential functions is a standard global practice.
He cited past instances where security chiefs have accompanied heads of state, including:
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Former IG Hilary Mutyambai accompanying President Uhuru Kenyatta on development tours, including visits to North Eastern Kenya to address security concerns.
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In Nigeria, former IGP Usman Baba attended national functions alongside President Muhammadu Buhari, particularly in security-sensitive areas.
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In South Africa, the National Commissioner of the SAPS participated in Presidential Imbizos, public engagement forums similar to those in Mount Kenya.
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In the United States, the FBI Director and Homeland Security Secretary often speak at presidential events related to national security.
Mwaura urged the public to disregard misleading assertions that the IG’s presence in Nyeri had political undertones, reaffirming that the National Police Service remains apolitical and committed to its constitutional mandate of maintaining law and order.
“The government is committed to ensuring citizen-centered service delivery. The President’s ongoing development tours are aimed at engaging directly with the people, assessing the progress of government initiatives, and addressing community concerns in real time. This is not a campaign exercise but a governance approach to enhance responsiveness and efficiency,” he said.
He assured that security agencies would continue to play their role in ensuring public safety at all official government events, in line with global best practices.
The clarification comes just hours after Kanja dismissed allegations by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) that he attended a political rally in Kieni, Nyeri County.
Reaffirming the IG’s commitment to constitutional impartiality, National Police Service (NPS) Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said, “At no point has the IG engaged in activities that could compromise the neutrality of his office.”
Nyaga emphasized that the IG’s presence in Nyeri was strictly in line with his official duties, including overseeing security arrangements during the President’s development tour, a key mandate of the NPS.
“The Presidential Escort Unit (PEU) is legally tasked with protecting the President, visiting dignitaries, and other designated VIPs under the direction of the Inspector General of Police,” Nyaga added.
