Inspector General Douglas Kanja is currently facing a dual-front crisis involving legal challenges and a deteriorating relationship with President William Ruto’s strategic handlers.
Sources indicate that the primary point of friction stems from the IG’s alleged “unconstitutional” takeover of the police payroll from the National Police Service Commission (NPSC), a move that has sparked both lawsuits and internal resentment.
This centralized control of police resources has reportedly clashed with the interests of influential figures within the President’s inner circle who prefer a more decentralized or overseen management system.
The tension has been further exacerbated by Kanja and DCI boss Mohamed Amin’s repeated failure to honor court summons regarding sensitive national security matters, including unresolved abduction cases.
These snubbed appearances have placed the Executive in a difficult position, as the Law Society of Kenya and the Judiciary have intensified their calls for the officers to be held personally accountable for contempt.
This public legal embarrassment has led some of the President’s handlers to view the current security leadership as a “liability” rather than an asset ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
Logistically, the security sector is bracing for a “looming shake-up” as the administration seeks to install leaders who are more closely aligned with the Ministry of Interior’s new directives.
Rumors of a comprehensive cabinet and security reshuffle have intensified since January 7, 2026, with the reassignment of key officials already underway in other departments.
Analysts believe that the potential exit of Kanja and Amin would serve as a “reset button” for a government that is under pressure to prove its commitment to the rule of law and human rights.
The fallout is not merely professional but has taken on a political dimension, with opposition leaders and former government allies like Rigathi Gachagua accusing the IG of enabling state-sponsored harassment.
This cross-political criticism has made it increasingly difficult for Kanja’s supporters within State House to defend his continued tenure.
As a result, “cunning” maneuvers are reportedly being finalized to ensure a transition that minimizes disruptions to the National Police Service while removing the current friction points.
Ultimately, the future of Douglas Kanja hangs on the next National Security Council meeting, where the final decision on the security docket’s leadership will likely be ratified.
If the leaks regarding his “fallout” are accurate, the country could witness a new appointment to Jogoo House by the end of the month.
For now, the IG remains in office, but the “chilling signals” from the Presidency suggest that his 40-year career in law enforcement may be entering its final, most turbulent chapter.
By NTVKenya