On Friday, July 12, former Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome praised the National Police Service (NPS) following his resignation.
Speaking at the NPS headquarters, Koome expressed his gratitude to the service for its support throughout his tenure.
“During the brief handing over ceremony held at NPS headquarters this afternoon, the outgoing IG Koome expressed his profound gratitude to the National Police Service Officers for the support they accorded him while he was in office and added that Kenya is a beautiful country and bigger than all of us,” read part of the police statement.
Koome’s resignation followed weeks of intense pressure from Kenyans and opposition leaders who had been calling on President William Ruto to fire him.
President Ruto acknowledged Koome’s resignation and announced additional appointments to fill the ensuing vacancies.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) was among the most vocal parties demanding Koome’s resignation, citing incompetence as a primary concern.
Through Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, the ODM urged President Ruto to dismiss both Koome and the Nairobi Regional Police Commander, blaming them for the deaths and injuries that occurred during recent protests in the city and across the country.
The ODM also demanded the arrest of all police officers involved in the alleged murders.
In response to the mounting pressure, Koome tendered his resignation just hours after the ODM’s demands.
He will be replaced by Douglas Kanja, the Deputy Inspector General of the National Police Service.
In a broader reshuffle, President Ruto transferred Noor Gabow to the Public Service and appointed Patrick Mwiti as Commissioner General of Prisons.
Koome’s tenure as Inspector General began in September 2022 when he was nominated by President Ruto to succeed Hillary Mutyambai, who served under the previous administration.
Koome’s resignation comes amidst a turbulent period for the government, marked by weeks of protests that also led to the dismissal of President Ruto’s entire cabinet.
The former IG’s departure underscores the broader challenges facing Kenya’s law enforcement and political leadership.
His resignation highlights the intense scrutiny and demands for accountability within the NPS, especially in the wake of widespread civil unrest.
As Douglas Kanja steps into the role of Inspector General, he inherits a complex and charged environment, with significant expectations for reform and improved governance.
Koome’s farewell remarks underscored his appreciation for the support he received from NPS officers during his time in office and his hope for a united and prosperous Kenya.
As the country moves forward, the reshuffled leadership will be closely watched to see how it addresses the pressing issues of police accountability, public safety, and the ongoing calls for justice and reform.
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