Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi has called upon the next Inspector General of Police to reform Kenya’s internal security into a force that is community-friendly.
Posting on his official X account on Sunday, July 14, 2024, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) legislator emphasized that the police should guide lost Kenyans on the streets instead of using force against peaceful protesters. Amisi believes such reforms will position Kenya as a model for the rest of Africa.
Amisi also underscored the importance of returning the focus of internal security forces to maintaining law and order.
The next IG of police should lead Kenya internal security forces into law and order force . I want to see police officer who direct citizens when they are lost in the streets and not shooting protesters. We can make Kenya the admiration of Africa .Kenya needs a renaissance!
— Hon. Caleb Amisi, MP (@Honcalebamisi) July 14, 2024
Amisi’s remarks come shortly after IG Japhet Koome resigned amidst public pressure for President William Ruto to dismiss him following deadly anti-government protests in Kenya. Koome’s resignation followed widespread criticism of police brutality during recent demonstrations across the country.
President Ruto announced Koome’s resignation and appointed Deputy Inspector General Douglas Kanja, who currently heads the Kenya Police, to serve as Acting Inspector General. Koome had been appointed to the role in September 2022 by President Ruto, succeeding Hillary Mutyambai.
During Koome’s tenure, there was significant controversy surrounding the police response to protests led by Gen Z, demanding various governmental reforms. The demonstrations were met with a forceful police crackdown, resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities, prompting calls for accountability and reform within the top echelons of the police command.
Amid mounting pressure for a complete overhaul of the top police leadership criticized for failing to secure the country during protests that resulted in over 40 deaths, President Ruto has taken action.
Following recommendations from the National Police Service Commission, Eliud Lagat, the General Service Unit Commandant, has been appointed as the Acting Deputy Inspector General of Police overseeing the Kenya Police. Additionally, James Kamau has been appointed as the Acting Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Administration Police.
