Interior and National Administration Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has emphasized the importance of upholding the law within Kenya’s policing system.
Speaking on Monday, January 13, during the opening of an Induction Training on Human Rights for the newly appointed Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) Board, Omollo underscored that no police officer is above the law.
He, however, reminded attendees that police officers, like every other Kenyan, are entitled to constitutional rights, including the right to life and a fair trial.
“No police officer is above the law, and every Kenyan, including law enforcement officers, is entitled to the right to life and fair trial as guaranteed in our Constitution,” Omollo stated.
Omollo also highlighted IPOA’s critical role in bridging the gap between the public and the police. He explained that the authority is not meant to vilify law enforcement but to foster trust and confidence in Kenya’s policing and criminal justice systems.
“As the new members of the IPOA Board, you now carry the profound responsibility of ensuring that policing in Kenya adheres to the highest standards of accountability and respect for human rights and dignity,” he said.
IPOA is mandated to provide civilian oversight over the National Police Service (NPS), with the aim of ensuring professionalism, transparency, and accountability within the force.
Despite its crucial role, IPOA has repeatedly expressed concerns over the lack of cooperation from the NPS, which hinders its effectiveness.
In July 2024, IPOA Commissioner John Waiganjo lamented the challenges faced by the authority, including unresponsiveness to summons and hostility toward investigators.
“Once we carry out our investigations, other agencies will necessarily take over. However, we have found a very hostile environment where our officers do not get any information when they go out there. When we give out a summons, they are not responded to,” Waiganjo noted.
The remarks underscore the ongoing need for collaboration between IPOA and the police to ensure accountability and maintain public trust in law enforcement.
