I will do whatever it takes to protect gov't offices during protests: IG nominee Kanja

Appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Administration and Internal Security, the nominee explained that state offices are protected areas that should not be breached. 

He noted that the Constitution only allows the right to demonstrate peacefully and not to destroy property, referencing June 25, 2024, when protestors accessed Parliament premises during the anti-government demonstrations.

Kanja was responding to a question by Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu who questioned why the police officers were overpowered by protestors and were unable to protect state offices. 

"Parliament is one of the key bodies established by the Constitution and if approved, this is an area we can't allow anyone to joke around. For me, I'll do whatever it takes to ensure that this parliament is safe and secure as IG," he remarked. 

The IG nominee admitted that the officers, despite being adequately prepared, faced a daunting task trying to contain the multitude of protestors who showed up during the demonstrations. 

"On the part of the police service, we were fully prepared. Despite the fact the multitudes of people who turned up were huge. Major roads were blocked such that for the water canons to get water was a challenge," he noted.

"But there are better preparations, and also the issue of motor agency support systems to ensure everyone is coordinating to ensure we are set for that."

If approved, he promised to look into several factors affecting the police services including adding proper equipment, enhancing promotions, and enhancing training resources among others. 

While responding to questions regarding police brutality during the protests, Kanja said that bodies such as the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) are mandated to investigate such incidents to ensure officers don't cross the line. 

He also promised to use his capacity as the IG. if approved, to order the Internal Affairs Unit to conduct thorough investigations into the police brutality cases. 

"I will ensure the police service acts within the provisions of the law so that everyone enjoys those rights," he added.

On July 25, 2024, President Ruto nominated Kanja as IG after Japhet Koome resigned after pressure from the public lamented over police brutality on protestors.

Four days later, Deputy IG Gilbert Masengeli took over the IG role in an acting capacity as Kanja awaited parliamentary vetting.