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In his testimony before the National Assembly Committee on Administration and Internal Security, Douglas Kanja, the nominee for the position of Police Inspector General, has vowed to prioritize the protection of government offices, particularly the Parliament, during protests if his nomination is approved.

Speaking on Thursday, August 15, 2024, Kanja emphasized the significance of safeguarding key institutions like the Parliament

,”Parliament is one of the key bodies established by the Constitution and if approved, this is an area we can’t allow anyone to joke around. For me, I’ll do whatever it takes to ensure that this Parliament is safe and secure as IG.”The IG Nominee said

Reflecting on the recent anti-government protests, where the Parliament building was breached and property was looted, Kanja acknowledged the challenges faced by the police.

He mentioned that despite being fully prepared, the large number of protesters and the blocking of major roads made it difficult for the police to access necessary resources, such as water for water cannons.

“On the part of the police service, wewere fully prepared. Despite the fact the multitudes of people who turned up were huge. Major roads were blocked such that for the water canons to get water was a challenge,” Kanja stated.

The nominee pledged to address various issues impacting police services, including providing adequate equipment, improving promotion opportunities, and expanding training resources.

He also stressed the need for better preparations and enhanced coordination among different agencies to handle such situations more effectively in the future.

Kanja affirmed that, under his leadership, the police service would operate within the law, ensuring that everyone’s rights are respected.

The address comes against the backdrop of the June 25, 2024, incident, where anti-government protesters breached the Parliament, causing an estimated Ksh94 million in damages.

Several protesters were shot in the fierce clash with the anti-riot police.

Inside Parliament, chairs in the lounge area were turned upside-down, windows shattered, and walls destroyed.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula announced that Gen Z protests caused Ksh94 million in damages.

Wetang’ula said the assessment, done by an insurance firm, revealed that television screens, furniture, equipment, and buildings were damaged.

Fortunately, taxpayers will not bear the costs as the insurance company will cover the repairs and replacements.

“The damages caused as assessed by our insurer Ksh94 million. That is the damage we suffered. We had an insurance cover, so the company is taking steps. Work has started to restore the damaged buildings, furniture and TVs,” Wetang’ula said on Monday, July 22, 2024.