‘Nobody Has Moral Authority to Ask Anyone to Resign,’ Moses Kuria Speaks on Calls to Remove IG Kanja
Is it fair to blame one man for a nation’s woes? This question looms large as President William Ruto’s Economic Advisor, Moses Kuria, weighed in on the rising calls for Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja’s resignation. Speaking on a TV show Wednesday night, Kuria deflected the blame for the recent surge in abductions of government critics, pointing instead to a deeper societal issue: moral decay.
Kuria emphasized that the entire nation shares responsibility for the crisis, describing it as a reflection of the collective moral decline. While acknowledging the government’s role in addressing these issues, he shifted some of the accountability to societal behaviors and values. “The rise in kidnappings isn’t just a failure of leadership—it’s a failure of our society as a whole,” Kuria asserted, urging citizens to look inward before pointing fingers.
When asked whether IG Kanja should step down for failing to protect Kenyans and ignoring court summons, Kuria was quick to defend the embattled police chief. “Yes, the IG must act to stop these abductions, but should we all resign as Kenyans because we are guilty of the same moral decline? When I see my children engaging in certain activities on social media, should I resign as a parent?” he challenged, calling for a collective reflection on responsibility.
Kuria argued that it is easy to demand resignations, but the underlying issues are far more complex. He questioned whether removing the IG would address the root causes of the problem. “If the IG resigns, will the negative behavior on social media stop? We need to consider the broader picture before placing blame,” he argued, urging for a more balanced view.
His remarks sparked a heated exchange with host Trevor Ombija, who questioned how leaders could guide the younger generation or enforce accountability if no one is deemed morally fit to demand responsibility. In response, Kuria invoked a biblical perspective, stating, “We need a national dialogue, for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.”
Drawing on the story of John the Baptist, Kuria suggested that public judgment doesn’t always equate to justice, urging fairness in holding both leaders and citizens accountable. He implied that societal issues require more than just scapegoating; they demand a comprehensive approach to moral and ethical rejuvenation.
Meanwhile, the High Court in Nairobi found former IG Japhet Koome liable for his remarks in April 2024, directing law enforcement to act decisively against striking medics. Similarly, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, the DCI, and IG Kanja were summoned to court to explain the recent abductions but failed to appear. The nation awaits their response, as the debate on accountability and moral responsibility continues to unfold.
Article By Suzy Nyongesa.
