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Japhet Koome has stepped down from his position as the Inspector General of the National Police Service.
His resignation, which came as a surprise, was announced on Friday afternoon by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed in a statement to the media.
In the statement, it was mentioned that President William Samoei Ruto has accepted Koome’s resignation, effective July 12, 2024. Pending the appointment of a new Inspector General, Mr. Douglas Kanja, who currently serves as the Deputy-Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, will assume the role in an acting capacity.
As part of these changes, Deputy Inspector General Noor Gabow of the Administration Police Service has been reassigned within the Public Service.
Additionally, Mr. Eliud Langat will serve as the Acting Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, while Mr. James Kamau will act as the Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service.
Koome faced criticism over police actions, including arbitrary arrests and abductions during recent anti-government protests.
Human rights organizations reported at least 39 deaths during nationwide demonstrations prompted by the now-repealed Finance Bill 2024.
Critics, including political figures and the public, faulted Koome for not addressing allegations of police brutality.
These changes in the police leadership follow President Ruto’s recent dissolution of his Cabinet, apparently aimed at addressing public discontent with his administration. Concurrently, Mr. Patrick Mwiti Arandu has been appointed as the new Commissioner General of Prisons, succeeding Brigadier (Rtd) John Warioba.
Further adjustments include Mr. Ranson Lolmodooni assuming the role of Commandant of the General Service Unit (GSU), and Mr. Gilbert Masengeli appointed as Commandant of the Administration Police Training College (APTC), Embakasi.
Mr. William Yiampoy will take up the position of Director of Operations at Police Headquarters, and Mr. Kainga Mathiu will become the Commandant of the National Police Leadership Academy (NPSA) in Ngong.
President Ruto expressed gratitude to the outgoing Inspector General for his service to the nation and extended best wishes for Koome’s future endeavors. These changes are effective immediately, as announced by the State House spokesperson.
