The Interior Ministry has outlined an ongoing wave of security sector reforms aimed at improving professionalism within the Police Service.
The reforms come amid public concerns over police conduct during protests, including allegations of excessive force and instances of officers operating while masked.
Speaking on the reforms, PS Raymond Omollo said the government is focused on building a more modern and responsive police force equipped with the skills and technology needed to manage complex and evolving security situations.
Retraining and Technology Push
According to PS Omollo, a central pillar of the reforms is retraining officers to improve situational awareness and decision-making, particularly in high-pressure environments such as protests.
The training is intended to ensure officers are better equipped to assess threats, interact with civilians appropriately, and apply the law within professional standards.
He noted that the reforms are designed to help the service “reap the dividends” of ongoing investments in modernization, including the integration of technology in policing operations and improved operational preparedness.
Recruitment Shift Toward Professionalisation
The PS also highlighted changes in recruitment policies aimed at strengthening professionalism within the service.
While acknowledging the continued intake of constables, he said the recruitment framework has been expanded to include officers with specialised skills and academic qualifications.
This shift is intended to address long-standing gaps in expertise and bring in graduates who can contribute to a more structured and professional police service. The move is also expected to enhance discipline, ethical conduct, and institutional capacity over time.
Accountability Measures Including Body Cameras
As part of broader transparency efforts, the government plans to introduce body-worn cameras for selected police units.
The devices are expected to improve accountability during operations, particularly in public order management situations such as demonstrations.
The reforms also respond to growing concerns about the use of excessive force during protests and allegations of misconduct by some officers. The PS emphasized that professionalism and adherence to the law remain central to the transformation agenda.
He further noted the need to address issues of welfare, promotion, and discipline within the service, arguing that institutional weaknesses have in some cases contributed to operational challenges.
