Why IG Kanja was present during Mt Kenya rallies-Ruto

President William Ruto has defended the attendance of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja at his recent meetings in Nyeri, dismissing the backlash from a section of the public.

The President, speaking in Chuka, Tharaka Nithi County, on Friday, emphasized that Kanja’s presence was appropriate for the public function.

The IG attended the President’s meeting on Tuesday, where Ruto handed over title deeds to Nyeri residents, and the event quickly became a point of contention.

Critics questioned whether the IG’s attendance was politically motivated, but Ruto was quick to clarify his stance.

"In Nyeri, I handed over title deeds to people of Nyeri, people who were deserving, and the IG attended the event. Now I’m seeing some people vilify him for it," the President said.

Ruto noted that the IG’s role was simply in line with his duties, as the National Police Service (NPS) oversees security during public events.

Ruto further explained that Kanja’s presence was in no way linked to political campaigns, as his tour of the region was aimed at promoting development.

"The IG is here today because I’m on a development tour of Tharaka Nithi, and in that tour, I have also handed over housing units to the police. It’s proper and right to hand them over to the IG," he added.

In his speech, the President took the opportunity to underscore the importance of focusing on development rather than politics.

He urged leaders to prioritize the country’s needs over constant political activity.

“Between the five-year electoral cycle, there are more important stuff for us to do as a government and people. You can’t do politics for 24 hours a day, seven days a week for five years. The country would come to a standstill," he said.

Ruto reiterated that his administration was working towards addressing the challenges faced by the police, especially concerning housing.

As part of the ongoing commitment, the President announced plans for 27,000 housing units for the National Police Service.

"I want the police to live in a decent and hygienic environment to help them deliver on their role of securing lives and property," Ruto stated.

At the event in Tharaka Nithi, the President handed over 60 housing units constructed for police officers.

Kanja welcomed the gesture, noting that the NPS has struggled with providing decent housing for its officers.

"It’s a significant step in improving the living conditions of our officers," he said.

Despite the controversy, the National Police Service maintained that Kanja’s attendance at the Nyeri meeting was in line with his official duties.

A statement from the NPS clarified that the IG’s role was to ensure security during the President’s development tour.

"At no time has the IG engaged in activities that could undermine the neutrality of his office," said NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga.

The Law Society of Kenya had earlier called for an apology from Kanja, arguing that his presence at the event compromised the neutrality of the police force.

LSK President Faith Odhiambo criticized the IG’s participation, but the NPS stood by its decision, reinforcing that the IG remained impartial in his duties.

"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.

In light of these ongoing discussions, President Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to continuing with his development initiatives, ensuring that all sectors, including the police, benefit from the government's focus on improving living standards.

As the debate continues, the President's message remains clear: governance should always prioritize the nation’s development above partisan interests.