Tensions escalated at the National Police Headquarters in Nairobi as leaders of the United Opposition were blocked from meeting Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja.
On Monday, February 16, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua told reporters that IG Kanja deliberately avoided the scheduled meeting, sending only junior officers to receive them at the gates.
Gachagua criticized the Police chief for undermining their efforts to seek accountability for the attacks at Witima Church.
IG Kanja’s Junior Officers Turned Away as Opposition Demands Personal Meeting. Photo: Courtesy.
He accused the IG of shielding those responsible and perpetuating a culture of impunity.
“Despite scheduling an appointment with leaders of the United Opposition to review and track progress on critical issues, he chose, instead, the convenience of a hide-and-seek game, subjecting us to interactions with junior police officers. His continued refusal to act confirms a deliberate strategy to shield perpetrators and normalise impunity. We will return to your office. You can run, but you will not hide, Mr Kanja Douglas,” Gachagua stated.
The Wiper Patriotic Front Party Leader, Kalonzo Musyoka, claimed that the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, deliberately avoided the meeting, suggesting that the move was influenced by instructions from President William Ruto.
Kalonzo said the United Opposition has rescheduled another meeting with the IG on Friday, February 20, which will include public participation.
He warned that continued impunity could prompt citizens to take collective action to defend democracy.
The opposition leaders also sought answers regarding the insecurity witnessed during the rally organized by Senator Edwin Sifuna in Kitengela on Sunday.
Both Kalonzo and Gachagua called on IG Kanja to act impartially and ensure that the law applies equally to all, regardless of political affiliation.
Earlier, the police had issued a statement providing updates on the investigation into the Witima Church attack and urged the public to share any information that could help identify the perpetrators.
