The David Maraga-led taskforce has recommended significant changes within the National Police Service (NPS), targeting key leaders and structures in a bid to reform the service. Among the recommendations is a complete overhaul of the National Police Service Commission (NPSC), including the removal of all commissioners and the vetting of top police commanders for effective reform.
The taskforce’s report, submitted to President William Ruto last November, highlights numerous improprieties within the NPS, including corruption, sexual abuse, tribalism, and mismanagement. It specifically criticizes top police commanders, including Inspector General Japeth Koome, for failing to take sufficient responsibility in managing the service.
The NPSC also faces harsh criticism for its failure to fulfill its obligations, particularly in human resource management and recruitment. The report suggests that the commissioners’ neglect of these functions amounts to dereliction of duty.
To address corruption within the police service, the taskforce recommends targeting top bosses rather than junior officers and implementing a fresh round of vetting for officers of the rank of Senior Superintendent of Police and above. An independent panel appointed by the President would oversee this process.
The report suggests negotiated exits for the current NPSC leadership, considering their constitutionally guaranteed security of tenure. This would pave the way for new leadership committed to NPS reforms, ensuring that the commission fulfills its mandate effectively.
Additionally, the taskforce proposes amendments to the NPSC Act to address quorum issues and ensure that the commission operates effectively. It recommends enhancing the qualification criteria for the chairperson of the commission and addressing concerns about the commission being perceived as “police-heavy.”
