The first chairperson of the National Police Service Commission (NPSC), Johnston Kavuludi has defended Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, asserting that he is a competent and capable leader.

Speaking on a local TV station on Thursday, June 12, 2025, Kavuludi addressed concerns within the police service and urged Kanja to take decisive action against rogue officers to restore public trust and accountability.

Kavuludi acknowledged that certain factions within the National Police Service (NPS) have yet to fully embrace the institution’s civilian-centred approach.

He emphasised the importance of aligning the service with the Constitution and the expectations of the public.

“I can tell you, because I’ve worked with the majority of the senior police officers, we have a very competent Inspector General. He has a great personality, is well trained, well informed, and is a down to earth individual whom we can trust. The problem is, can we place the same level of trust in many of the junior officers under him? That may not be the case,” he said.

“There are sections within the service who are yet to appreciate that the institution is civilian-centred. This is a fundamental shift that must be embraced for the National Police Service to serve the people effectively.”

He commended IG Kanja for his leadership and commitment to reform, highlighting the need for continued efforts to address challenges within the service.

“Inspector General Kanja has demonstrated competence and a clear vision for the future of the NPS,” Kavuludi stated.

“However, there is still work to be done to ensure that all officers uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.”

Call for NPS reforms

Kavuludi’s comments come amid increasing public scrutiny of the NPS, particularly following the death of Albert Ojwang, a teacher who died in police custody.

He urged IG Kanja to take swift and decisive action against officers found to be engaging in rogue activities.

“IG Kanja must act decisively to remove rogue officers from the service,” Kavuludi asserted. “This is essential to restore public trust and ensure accountability within the National Police Service,” he said.

He also called for enhanced training and support for officers to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively and ethically.

“Continuous training and support are vital to ensure that officers are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern policing,” Kavuludi noted. “This will help to foster a culture of professionalism and respect for human rights within the NPS.”

Kavuludi exuded in IG Kanja’s ability to lead the NPS through the ongoing reform process. He reiterated the importance of maintaining a civilian-centred approach to policing and ensuring that the service remains accountable to the public.

“With continued leadership and commitment to reform, the NPS can overcome its challenges and emerge as a model of professionalism and accountability,” Kavuludi noted.