United Opposition Gives IG Kanja February 20 Deadline After Missed Meeting

 

Members of Kenya’s United Opposition have issued a fresh ultimatum to Inspector General Douglas Kanja, demanding he convene a meeting with them by Friday, February 20, 2026, following a failed attempt to engage him at his office in Nairobi.

The leaders visited Vigilance House on Monday but claimed the police chief neither appeared nor sent any senior representative. 

The delegation was led by Rigathi Gachagua and included Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, Fred Matiang’i and Martha Karua.

Leaders Demand Accountability

Addressing journalists outside the police headquarters, Wamalwa accused the police command of deliberately avoiding engagement with the opposition.

He noted that even Deputy Inspectors General were absent, suggesting the no-show was intentional. 

According to him, the meeting was meant to address alleged human rights violations and security concerns linked to a church attack in Othaya.

The opposition insisted the police service has a constitutional duty to respond to public concerns and provide clarity on investigations.

Weekly Visits Planned

The leaders announced they will return to the headquarters every week until their concerns are addressed. They further warned that continued failure to engage them could escalate political tensions.

Gachagua’s Democracy for Citizens Party faction also alleged that the police chief’s absence resulted from instructions from higher authorities, including William Ruto and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen — claims the government has not officially responded to.

Mass Action Threat

Earlier, the opposition had issued a two-week ultimatum demanding the arrest of officers allegedly linked to the January 25 church attack in Othaya. They warned that failure to act would lead to nationwide demonstrations.

Although the deadline lapsed on February 16, the leaders have now extended talks to Friday, giving the police chief a final chance to appear.

“If he does not appear, we will keep coming here until accountability is achieved,” Wamalwa said.