A delegation from LSK led by president Faith Odhiambo during a visit to IG Douglas Kanja's office at the National Police Service Headquarters, Jogoo House in Nairobi, June 4, 2025. /NPS/XInspector General of the National Police Service, Douglas Kanja, has encouraged members of the Law Society of Kenya to raise concerns openly and engage constructively with the police.
He said such interactions would foster mutual understanding and strengthen professional ties.
“The National Police Service is ready to work with the Law Society of Kenya in advancing national justice and security,” Kanja said.
“We are open to feedback and encourage you to share your concerns freely through proper channels.”
He made the remarks on June 4 during a meeting with LSK officials at the National Police Service Headquarters, Jogoo House in Nairobi.
The meeting comes against the backdrop of growing public debate over police accountability and conduct.
In recent weeks, the Law Society of Kenya has voiced concern over various actions by law enforcement, calling for reforms to reinforce public trust.
These concerns include the arrest of lawyers without due process, the use of officers in civilian clothing during protests, and delays in addressing incidents involving excessive use of force.
The Society has also condemned reported abductions of government critics and activists, criticised the presence of armed officers in courtrooms, and challenged the deployment of military personnel during civilian demonstrations — arguing that such actions could compromise constitutional freedoms and the rule of law.
In response to these concerns, Kanja acknowledged the need for open dialogue and closer cooperation between the police and legal profession.
He said many of the issues raised could be constructively addressed through institutional engagement, mutual respect, and shared responsibility in safeguarding justice.
To strengthen collaboration, the Inspector-General invited the LSK to deliver lectures at the National Police Leadership Academy (NPLA) in Ngong.
He noted that such knowledge exchange would enhance understanding of legal principles among officers while providing a platform for sustained interaction.
LSK President Faith Odhiambo welcomed the invitation, stating that the society is committed to improving relations with law enforcement through respectful, transparent, and consistent engagement.
She said the legal profession has a duty to advocate for a just and accountable policing system that upholds constitutional rights.
The LSK delegation included Vice-President Mwaura Kabata, CEO Florence Muturi, and council members Irene Otto, Gloria Kimani, Hosea Manwa, Vincent Githaiga, and Stephen Mbugua.
Also present were Deputy IG, NPS, Eliud Lagat, Deputy IG, Administration Police Service Gilbert Masengeli, Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin, Principal Assistant to the Inspector-General Mathew Kutoh, Director of Legal Amos Omuga, Director of Administration, Planning and Finance Richard Lesasuiyan, Director of Corporate Communication and NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, and Personal Assistant to the IG James Murithi.
The meeting ended with a shared commitment to sustained engagement aimed at strengthening professional standards, accountability, and public confidence in Kenya’s justice system.
