“I have served in many areas and I believe I have what it takes to become Inspector General” – Kiraithe/CFM-File
For nearly four hours, the police spokesman faced tough questions, including allegations raised by members of the public on various issues touching on his integrity.
He told the commission he is best suited to lead the national police service because of the experience he gained rising through the ranks in the force.
“I have served in many areas and I believe I have what it takes to become Inspector General of police,” he said.
The commission led by Johnston Kavuludi told Kiraithe to explain an allegation that he instigated the arrest of a man who allegedly researched a thesis for him.
He however denied the allegation and branded the man an extortionist.
Kiraithe told the commission he had contributed to a raft of reforms in the police department, including at the communication department which he said is much better at the moment.
“I have interacted well with the public and the police themselves,” he said.
Peter Macharia Mwangi, a former Anti Corruption official now working at the Witness Protection Agency based at the State Law Office was also taken to task on allegations of having beaten up a magistrate in Garissa in a bar.
He admitted the incident and explained that the magistrate who is now a judge had even apologised to him over the confrontation.
Mwangi who was at the time a police officer told the commission he took the action because the magistrate was harassing waiters at the bar.
Mwangi and Kiraithe told the commission they will prioritise the war against corruption amongst police officers, particularly the traffic department to change the force.
“It is a menace that must be brought to an end,” Kiraithe said, adding “If I am given the job I will streamline the entire force and make sure there is a standard operating procedure on everything.”
“I will also ensure the police get adequate resources to be able to perform effectively,” he said.
Interpol liaison officer Mary Oyugi Kaol was also interviewed on Monday and told the commission she will ensure adequate resources for the police if appointed Inspector General of Police.
Others interviewed previously include deputy commandant of the Kenya Police College in Kiganjo Joseph Ashimala, David Kimaiyo of the Small Arms Secretariat and John Patrick Odueng Owino, a civilian.
Others are former Provincial Commissioner Hassan Noor Hassan, Kenya Airways Chief Security Officer Swaleh Slim and Kenya Airports Police Unit (KAPU) boss Grace Kaindi.
The commission will commence interviews for the deputy Inspector Generals of police in charge of the regular and Administration Police.
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