Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has warned police officers against engaging in partisan politics ahead of the 2027 General Election, reminding them of their constitutional obligation to remain neutral and professional.
Kanja said officers must execute their duties without political influence, favouritism or discrimination, noting that the National Police Service had a responsibility to protect the rights and freedoms of all Kenyans regardless of their political affiliations.
Speaking on Saturday during the annual National Joint Thanksgiving Service for uniformed and disciplined services at the Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi, the Inspector General said police officers must ensure citizens could exercise their constitutional rights in a peaceful and secure environment.
“Our constitutional responsibility is to serve the Republic of Kenya and her people without fear, favour or prejudice. We must remain politically neutral and impartial and professional in the execution of our duties,” he said.
His remarks come as political activities begin gaining momentum ahead of the 2027 elections, with police expected to play a critical role in maintaining law and order during political campaigns, public gatherings and the electoral period.
Kanja also directed officers to heighten security preparedness ahead of the festive season, warning that increased travel, commercial activities and public celebrations would present additional security challenges.
He urged officers to remain vigilant and respond swiftly to emerging threats while strengthening crime prevention operations across the country.
“I urge officers to remain alert, tactically prepared and responsive to emerging security concerns,” Kanja said.
The Inspector General specifically called for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations, citing dangerous driving practices such as speeding, drunk driving and the use of overloaded vehicles and motorcycles.
He also appealed to motorists and other road users to exercise caution during the holiday period, when increased movement of people often raises the risk of road accidents and security incidents.
Beyond traffic enforcement, Kanja urged police officers to strengthen community policing and work closely with members of the public to prevent crime before it occurs.
“The duty of the police or the security providers is prevention of crime in advance. When you prevent crime, then you fight it so that society will be safe and secure,” he said.
He further identified sexual and gender-based violence as an area requiring increased attention, calling on parents and guardians to protect children during the school holidays.
Kanja acknowledged the sacrifices made by police officers and other security personnel, noting that many would spend the festive season away from their families while maintaining security across the country.
He thanked officers’ families for their continued support, alongside religious leaders and service commanders who contribute to the welfare of uniformed personnel.
The thanksgiving service brought together representatives from the National Police Service, Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Prisons Service and National Youth Service, among other disciplined services.
The gathering marked the culmination of 18 thanksgiving services conducted in different parts of the country during the year.
Representing the Chief Conservator of Forests, Kenya Forest Service Deputy Commandant Wilson Leboo used the occasion to rally Kenyans behind the national tree-growing campaign.
Leboo urged institutions and members of the public to take advantage of the ongoing rains to plant more trees, noting that the Kenya Forest Service was supporting the government’s target of growing 15 billion trees by 2032.
The event also honoured security officers who had lost their lives in the line of duty, with Kanja calling on Kenyans to remember their sacrifices and support the families they left behind.