Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja./HANDOUTPolice recruits have been urged to remain politically neutral and uphold the Constitution as Kenya heads towards the 2027 General Election.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja said officers joining the National Police Service must serve all Kenyans without favour, regardless of their political affiliation, ethnicity or personal interests.
Speaking at the National Police Training College in Kiganjo, Nyeri County, Tuesday, after presiding over a passing-out parade rehearsal, Kanja said the recruits were joining the service at a critical time in the country's electoral cycle.
“I also want to bring to your attention that your passing out comes at a critical juncture in our nation's electoral cycle,” Kanja said.
He reminded the recruits that elections were a defining feature of Kenya's constitutional democracy and that police officers had a central role in ensuring the process was conducted in a peaceful, secure and orderly environment.
“One year from now, Kenyans will once again exercise their democratic right by electing their leaders,” he said.
Kanja said officers must not allow political interests to interfere with their duties, warning that their loyalty should remain with the Constitution and the law.
“As such, upon your graduation, you are expected to remain politically neutral at all times. Your loyalty must never rest with individuals, political parties, ethnic groups, or personal interests. Your allegiance is to the Constitution of Kenya and the law,” he said.
The IG described policing as a sacred responsibility that requires officers to demonstrate integrity, professionalism, accountability, teamwork, patriotism and empathy while carrying out their duties.
Accompanied by Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, Kanja said the Constitution had entrusted police officers with significant powers and responsibilities in maintaining law and order.
“The authority you exercise is derived from the Constitution and the people of Kenya,” he said.
He reminded the recruits that the exercise of police powers must always be guided by the rule of law and respect for human rights.
“Your service must, therefore, be anchored in the rule of law and respect of human rights,” Kanja said.
The IG said the recruits had successfully completed rigorous training under a comprehensive and transformative curriculum.
However, he cautioned them that their true competence would be tested once they reported to their respective stations.
He urged the officers to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during training while remaining disciplined and professional in their interactions with members of the public.
Kanja said the public expected the new officers to demonstrate fairness and professionalism irrespective of the circumstances they encountered in the line of duty.
Deputy Inspector General Lagat also cautioned the recruits against mishandling official information, particularly as technology and social media continue to influence policing.
“You are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and integrity of information while addressing matters relating to police operations, training, deployments, or any other official matters,” Lagat said.
The warning comes as political activities are expected to intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, putting the conduct and neutrality of security agencies under increased public scrutiny.
The new officers are expected to graduate during a passing-out parade on Friday, with President William Ruto expected to preside over the ceremony as chief guest.
The graduation will mark the beginning of their careers in the National Police Service, with Kanja urging them to remember that their ultimate responsibility is to the Constitution, the law and the Kenyan people.
