The National Assembly has approved the nomination of Douglas Kirocho Kanja as the new Inspector General of Police. He now awaits a formal appointment by President William Ruto.
Kanja was nominated as the next IG of police after the resignation of Japhet Koome. Koome served in the position for two years, and his resignation came amidst the Finance Bill protests, where dozens of youths were abducted and killed.
Before his nomination to the IG position, Kanja served as the Commandant of the General Service Unit.
But who is Douglas Kanja, and what is his background? Let’s explore his background, education, career, family, and work experience.
Background: Age & Education
Kanja was born on April 3, 1964, in Nyeri Country Kenya. He attended a local primary school in Nyeri and proceeded to Murang’a High School for his high school education.
Although Kanja was recruited to the police service immediately after his A-levels, he later pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce (finance) at Kenyatta University.
During his vetting, he said he undertook the commerce degree to gain leadership skills, in readiness for higher leadership positions in the police service.
Family
Kanja is married to Mrs. Wambui Kanja, and they are blessed with several children. Despite his decorated career in the police service, Kanja maintains a low profile and prefers to keep his family private.
During his vetting, Kanja mentioned that he balances his demanding work at the police service by spending time with his wife and children at his farm in Nyeri. During his early days in the police service, he was regularly spotted attending church alongside his family.
Douglas Kanja Net Worth
The IG of police nominee has a net worth of 46 million in the form of land, agricultural activities, and his two houses.
At his rural home, he runs various farming activities including crop farming and dairy farming. He also owns a bungalow in Kamiti area, Kiambu.
He disclosed his net worth when he appeared before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security and the Senate Standing Committee on National Security, Defence, and Foreign Relations.
Previous positions
Douglas Kanja spans nearly four decades since he joined the police service in 1985. He started as a constable, and he has risen through the ranks to become the next Inspector General of Police.
Some of his previous positions include:
- Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service
- Commandant of the General Service Unit
- Deputy Commandant of the General Service Unit
- County Police Commander, Kilifi County
- Deputy Commandant of Kenya Airports Police Unit
- Chief Armourer at the Police Headquarters
- Deputy Chief Armourer at the Kenya Police Service Headquarters
During the nearly four decades in law enforcement, Kanja has undertaken special training locally and abroad. This has seen him rise through the police ranks from a police constable to the Inspector General of Police position.
He has gained extensive experience working in various regions, including Nairobi, Coast, Eastern, and Rift Valley.
Achievements and awards
With nearly 40 years of service, Kanja has been recognized for outstanding service to the nation.
He was awarded the Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear, one of the highest honors that the President awards to citizens who have served the nation with dedication.
During the Dusit2 Hotel terror attack in 2019, Kanja led GSU officers in rescuing people trapped in the hotel and repulsing the attackers. His role earned him widespread recognition around the world for his leadership and bravery.
What next for Douglas Kanja after approval?
After the National Assembly approved Kanja’s nomination as the next IG of Police, Kanja now awaits formal appointment by President William Ruto. The senate has also given the green light for Kanja to occupy the top position in the police service.
As the top cop in Kenya, Kanja will be responsible for the overall command and supervision of the police service, including the Administration Police Service and Kenya Police Service.
He will be required to implement government policies related to national security, including directives on security strategies, public safety, crime prevention, and counter-terrorism.
He takes over a time when the police image is heavily dented, and he will be tasked with improving public-police relations. During the Finance Bill 2024 protests, police officers were accused of using too much force when dealing with unarmed protestors, resulting in injuries and even death.