Media Wire Express Correspondent
Kenya’s police chief, Japhet Koome, resigned on Friday following intense criticism of the police force’s conduct during recent anti-government protests that resulted in at least 39 deaths. The office of President William Ruto announced Koome’s resignation a day after Ruto dismissed nearly his entire cabinet, yielding to the demands of the protesters.
The protests, sparked by rising economic hardships and perceived government corruption, escalated into violent confrontations between demonstrators and police. The heavy-handed response from the police drew widespread condemnation both domestically and internationally, leading to calls for accountability and reforms within the police force.
In a statement, President Ruto acknowledged the gravity of the situation and expressed his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives during the protests.
He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability within the police force and promised thorough investigations into the events that led to the tragic loss of life.
Deputy Inspector-General Douglas Kanja has been appointed as the acting police chief with immediate effect. Kanja, who has a reputation for his professional conduct and commitment to reform, faces the daunting task of restoring public trust in the police force.
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His appointment is seen as a critical step towards addressing the systemic issues within the police and ensuring that such incidents do not recur.
In his first public statement as acting police chief, Kanja pledged to prioritize human rights and uphold the rule of law. He called for a comprehensive review of police protocols and training programs to prevent future instances of excessive use of force.
The resignation of Koome and the sweeping changes in the cabinet come as a significant turning point in President Ruto’s administration. The government is now under immense pressure to implement substantial reforms to address the grievances of the protesters and the broader public.
Human rights organizations and civil society groups have welcomed the changes but stress that more needs to be done to achieve meaningful reform. They have called for an independent investigation into the police conduct during the protests and for the perpetrators of violence to be held accountable.
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