President William Ruto has praised Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli for his leadership during his tenure as Acting Inspector General of Police.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi, on Thursday, September 19, following the appointment of Douglas Kanja as the new Inspector General of Police, Ruto acknowledged Masengeli’s role in maintaining the stability and direction of the National Police Service during this interim period.
“I must commend the leadership of the National Police Service, especially the acting Inspector General who has managed the service effectively over the past few months, along with all the officers who have supported the continuity and clarity on national security matters,” President Ruto stated.
At the same time, President Ruto expressed his confidence in the new Inspector General, Douglas Kanja, affirming that the police service is in capable hands. He described Kanja as a seasoned leader, disciplined officer, and dedicated Kenyan.
“I want to tell the National Police Service that with Mr. Douglas Kanja, you have a seasoned leader, a disciplined career police officer, and a dedicated Kenyan. I have faith in Mr. Kanja’s capabilities to lead the men and women of the police service,” President Ruto stated.
The President also emphasized that Kanja has the crucial responsibility to shield the police force from any form of manipulation, intimidation, or blackmail. “You (Kanja) must ensure that the National Police Service operates without any undue influence and that all are held accountable under the law, without privilege or entitlement. We are all equal before the law,” Ruto added.
These comments come amid ongoing tensions between the police and the judiciary. The conflict arose after Deputy Inspector General Masengeli failed to appear in court despite judicial orders, leading to a broader dispute. The situation escalated when Justice Lawrence Mugambi’s security was withdrawn, and Masengeli was sentenced to six months in prison for disregarding court orders, a judgment he has since appealed.
