Kenya's Police Chief Japheth Koome resigns after nine bodies, believed to be protesters, were found near a police station in Nairobi. President Ruto announces leadership changes in the police force. The incident is linked to recent protests against the government. Citizens react, comparing the situation to other African countries and calling for greater accountability.
Kenya’s Police Chief Japheth Koome resigned on Friday amid ongoing protests sparked by a controversial finance bill that resulted in 39 fatalities. President William Ruto appointed Deputy Inspector General Douglas Kanja as interim chief amid public outcry over a harsh crackdown on protesters, accused of extrajudicial killings and abductions. The recent discovery of nine mutilated bodies in Nairobi's Mukuru slums further intensified calls for Koome's resignation. Ruto's cabinet reshuffle, prompted by the bill protests, failed to quell demands for his resignation.
Reactions to the resignation have been mixed. Many Kenyans hailed it as a step towards accountability, with one social media user describing it as "justice."
Comparisons to other countries, particularly Nigeria, surfaced prominently. Numerous Nigerian commenters argued that such accountability "would never happen" there, citing incidents like the EndSARS protests. One commenter quipped, "Nigerian police and army chiefs have left the group chat," suggesting a pattern of evading responsibility.
Some voices called for more than just resignation, advocating for legal repercussions for Koome in light of the deaths. Others expressed skepticism, fearing he might be promoted rather than penalized in certain contexts.
