Japhet Koome, Kenya’s chief of police had tendered in his resignation on Friday after getting harshly criticised of his officers’ conduct during the anti-government protests last month that led to the death of about 39 people.
President Ruto’s office had revealed Koome’s resignation the day after he sacked almost his entire cabinet, acquiescing to the demands of protesters.
Presently, Koome’s deputy, Douglas Kanja has been promoted to acting police chief.
They have also accused police of using excessive force and abducting dozens of people as they tried to stop the protests.
Resident Ruto, in addressing the abduction claims had said in an event hosted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that reported abductions were regrettable and that any officers found responsible would be held accountable.
Why It Matters
The protests against proposed tax increases had begun peacefully but turned violent pretty quickly. The Kenyan police had shot tear gas, water cannon and live ammunition at the protesters.
While Ruto has cancelled the tax increases that spurred the protests, demonstrations have continued with activists calling for the president’s resignation as well as far-reaching political changes to fight corruption and poor governance.
This police chief’s resignation and cabinet dismissal by Ruto is a signal that the demand of the citizens have been heard and their struggle, acknowledged by the government.
