IPOA commissioner JM Waiganjo has called out acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja over the manner he has handled anti-government protests ever since he took over following the resignation of Japheth Koome.

In an exclusive interview with TV47, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) commissioner faulted IG Kanja for always looking to criminalise the demonstrations, instead of ensuring the safety of protesters.

According to Waiganjo, the police should encourage genuine protestors to work with them in arresting goons disrupting the peaceful protests to cause mayhem and destruction of property.

“Instead of saying there will not be protests tomorrow, he should be telling the protestors, ‘tomorrow’s protest we expect it to be peaceful and we expect you to help us arrest those goons’.” Waiganjo said.

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A section of Kenyans has widely criticized the National Police Service in the manner they have dealt with peaceful protestors during anti-government demonstrations.

Officers have been called out on the use of extreme force and the use of live bullets which has led to numerous lives lost in the course of the protests.

Waiganjo stated that the IG should instruct police officers to refrain from using live bullets and excessive force on protesters.

Occupy JKIA; IG Douglas Kanja warns protestors

Acting IG Douglas Kanja has warned protestors mobilizing to gather around protected areas.

Such protested areas, police say, include LPG plant in Embakasi and the national airport; Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, JKIA.

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Kenyans online have been mobilizing in the week to occupy JKIA in the wake of President Ruto naming his first batch of cabinet nominees.

Among the nominees making a return include Aden Duale, Kithure Kindiki, Alice Wahome, Rebecca Miano, Soipan Tuya, and Davis Chirchir.