Nyali MP Mohamed Ali has endorsed Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli as a potential successor to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, placing the senior police commander at the centre of an emerging debate over the future leadership of the National Police Service.
In a statement on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, Ali said any succession plan should prioritise leadership that can address concerns over public confidence in the police.
“At a time when public trust in the police is shaky, Kenyans need an IG with a clean record and proven leadership,” Ali said.
“If there’s any succession plan, then DIG Gilbert Masengeli should be considered best fit for the role of IG.”
Ali’s remarks amount to a political endorsement of Masengeli rather than an announcement of an official succession process. Kanja remains the serving Inspector General, while Masengeli is the Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service. The National Police Service Commission currently lists both officials among the senior leadership of the National Police Service.
Ali links succession debate to police accountability
The Nyali lawmaker framed his proposal against the backdrop of continuing public scrutiny of policing and accountability in Kenya.
Ali specifically invoked the death of Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody in June 2025, saying the case remains part of the public conversation on police accountability.
“This decision is crucial in restoring faith in the Police Service as Kenyans haven’t forgotten about Albert Ojwang’s murder under police custody,” he said.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) opened an investigation into Ojwang’s death and subsequently reported that several police officers had recorded statements as part of the inquiry. IPOA also said courts had allowed suspects to be held for additional time to facilitate investigations.
IPOA’s records show that the criminal case arising from Ojwang’s death has continued through the courts, with six people facing murder charges.
Ali ended his statement with the phrase, “Wengine watatumaliza,” underscoring his warning about what he sees as the consequences of failing to address public concerns over policing.
