Inspector General Japhet Koome Resigns
General Japhet Koome
Inspector General Japhet Koome Resigns
Japhet Koome, the Inspector General of the National Police Service, has resigned from his position.
Japhet Koome’s surprise resignation was announced Friday afternoon by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed in a statement to newsrooms.
Presidential Acceptance and Interim Appointment
President William Ruto has accepted Koome’s resignation effective July 12, 2024. Pending the appointment of a new police IG, Mr. Douglas Kanja, the current Deputy-Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, will serve as the acting Inspector-General of the National Police Service.
Leadership Changes in Police Service
In related changes, Deputy Inspector General Noor Gabow of the Administration Police Service has been redeployed within the Public Service. Mr. Eliud Langat will act as Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, and Mr. James Kamau will assume the role in the Administration Police Service.
Criticism and Controversy
Koome faced criticism for police actions during recent anti-government protests. Human rights organizations reported at least 39 deaths due to police involvement following the withdrawal of the Finance Bill 2024. Political leaders and the public condemned Koome’s silence on allegations of police brutality.
Political Maneuvers Amid Unrest
President Ruto dissolved his Cabinet to address public dissatisfaction a day before Koome’s resignation. Concurrently, Mr. Patrick Mwiti Arandu has been appointed Commissioner General of Prisons, succeeding Brigadier (Rtd) John Warioba, who is on terminal leave.
Restructuring in Police Leadership
Additional changes include Mr. Ranson Lolmodooni’s appointment as Commandant of the General Service Unit (GSU) and Mr. Gilbert Masengeli as Commandant of the Administration Police Training College (APTC), Embakasi. Mr. William Yiampoy is now Director of Operations at Police Headquarters, with Mr. Kainga Mathiu taking charge at the National Police Leadership Academy (NPSA), Ngong.
Presidential Acknowledgment
President Ruto expressed gratitude to outgoing Inspector-General Koome for his service and extended best wishes for his future endeavors. The changes take effect immediately, signaling swift transitions within the National Police Service.
