Parliament has approved the appointment of Dr Duncan Ojwang Oburu as the new chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), paving the way for him to take charge of the civilian body responsible for overseeing the police.
The National Assembly approved Ojwang’s nomination on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, after adopting a report by the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security.
Ojwang will succeed Justice Ahmed Issack Hassan, who left the position after being appointed to the Court of Appeal of Kenya. IPOA Vice Chairperson Anne Wanjiku Mwangi had been serving as acting chairperson.
President William Ruto nominated Ojwang for the position in July before forwarding his name to Parliament for vetting and approval.
Ojwang Promises to Protect IPOA Independence
During his vetting on August 12, Ojwang pledged to safeguard IPOA’s independence and strengthen the authority’s oversight of the National Police Service.
He told MPs that he was prepared to challenge those in positions of power when necessary.
“I believe I am courageous. I speak the truth. Trust me with that responsibility. We will speak truth to power,” he said.
His appointment comes at a time when IPOA continues to face heightened public scrutiny over police conduct, accountability and alleged violations of citizens’ rights.
Questions Raised Over Qualification
Despite Parliament approving his appointment, Ojwang’s nomination has been accompanied by questions concerning whether he satisfies the legal requirements for the IPOA chairperson position.
The law requires the chairperson to be a person qualified for appointment as a High Court judge, raising questions about whether Ojwang meets the stipulated threshold.
The approval by the National Assembly nevertheless clears the way for his appointment, subject to the completion of the remaining formalities required before he assumes office.
