The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has raised concerns over Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja Kirocho’s attendance and remarks at a political rally in Nyeri County.

In a press statement released on April 3, 2025, LSK criticized Kanja’s presence at the event, arguing that it violated constitutional provisions requiring police leadership to remain politically neutral.

According to LSK, Kanja’s involvement in the rally, which was led by President William Ruto , undermines the integrity of the National Police Service and could erode public trust in the institution. The society cited Article 245(1) of the Constitution, which mandates the Inspector-General to exercise independent command, free from political influence.

“We demand an immediate public apology by the Inspector General for his conduct, which is unbecoming of the position he holds. We equally demand that he refrains from engaging in any political mobilization, rallies, and discourse in his official capacity.” Wrote LSK president Faith Odhiambo.

Additionally, LSK referenced the National Police Service Act and the Leadership and Integrity Act, both of which prohibit state officers from engaging in political activities that may compromise the neutrality of their office.

The organization particularly took issue with remarks allegedly made by Kanja, stating that they could be interpreted as an endorsement of a political agenda.

“The Inspector-General’s role is too demanding to allow such unpalatable sideshows, lapses in judgment, and misplaced priorities,” LSK President Faith Odhiambo said in the statement.

In response, LSK has called for an immediate public apology from Kanja and urged him to refrain from any future political engagements. The organization further suggested that if Kanja is unable to uphold the political neutrality required of his office, he should consider stepping down.

The incident has sparked mixed reactions, with critics questioning the appropriateness of a senior police official appearing at a politically charged event, while others argue that his presence may have been a matter of protocol. The National Police Service has yet to issue an official response to LSK’s concerns.

As the debate continues, the issue highlights broader discussions on the role of security agencies in Kenya’s political landscape and the need to maintain public confidence in independent institutions.

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