Babu Owino vs IG Kanja: Who Really Controls the Police?

Nairobi ODM legislator Babu Owino has accused Inspector General of Police Francis Kanja of holding office illegally, raising fresh controversy over the leadership of the National Police Service.

Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi on Tuesday, Owino claimed that Kanja’s appointment did not follow the constitutional procedures required for the position.

According to Owino, the Inspector General’s tenure should have been subjected to parliamentary approval, and any deviation from this process renders his office tenure null and void.

The law is clear. No one can serve as IG without full constitutional compliance,” Owino insisted. “It is worrying that the security of our nation is under someone whose appointment is questionable.”

The legislator further accused the national government of bypassing oversight institutions to favor political interests.

Owino said such actions undermine the rule of law and set a dangerous precedent for accountability in security leadership.

He called on Parliament and the Judiciary to intervene to ensure that proper legal processes are respected.

Owino’s claims come amid growing tension between the Executive and oversight bodies on matters of national security appointments.

Critics have previously argued that past IG appointments have been politically motivated, eroding public trust in the police service.

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Owino emphasized that the security sector must operate independently of political manipulation to maintain public confidence.

However, officials in the Office of the President have defended Kanja’s appointment, describing it as fully compliant with all legal requirements.

They argue that the IG is performing his duties effectively and that any allegations challenging his legitimacy are politically motivated.

Legal experts have weighed in, noting that while appointments can be challenged in court, the burden of proof lies with the claimant to show that constitutional protocols were indeed violated.

“The Constitution provides mechanisms for appointments and oversight. If there is a credible claim, judicial intervention can clarify the legality,” said a senior constitutional lawyer who requested anonymity.

As the debate intensifies, the Inspector General has continued to oversee police operations, including ongoing initiatives to curb crime and enhance community policing.

The controversy over his appointment adds pressure on both political leaders and security agencies, who must navigate a complex legal and political landscape.

Babu Owino has vowed to pursue legal action if necessary, signaling a potentially prolonged standoff that could further politicize Kenya’s security apparatus.

Meanwhile, public scrutiny of the IG’s legitimacy is expected to remain high, with civil society organizations closely monitoring the situation.

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