Kenya Appoints National Steering Committee to Oversee Major Police and Security Reforms

• Sep 15, 2024

Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki has officially appointed a National Steering Committee to spearhead critical reforms in Kenya's security services, including the National Police Service (NPS), Kenya Prisons Service, and the National Youth Service (NYS). These reforms, initially proposed by a taskforce led by former Chief Justice David Maraga, are expected to bring significant changes to how these services operate.

According to a gazette notice issued by CS Kindiki, the committee will be chaired by Interior Principal Secretary (PS) Raymond Omollo. Other high-ranking officials will also be part of the team, including representatives from the Treasury, Correctional Services, Public Service, and Cabinet Affairs ministries. This multi-sectoral approach ensures that various governmental departments are involved in implementing these vital reforms.

In addition to these officials, key figures such as the Solicitor-General, the Inspector-General of Police, the commissioner-general of the Kenya Prisons Service, and the Commandant-General of the National Youth Service will participate in the committee. Other important members include the Chairperson of the National Police Service Commission (NPSC), the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) chairperson, and a representative from the Head of Public Service. This broad representation highlights the comprehensive nature of the reforms, which span across multiple institutions and government bodies.

Furthermore, additional representatives from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP), the Public Service Commission (PSC), the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), the Kenya Law Reform Commission (KLRC), and the National Youth Service Council will contribute to the committee’s work. Their involvement ensures that legal, financial, and public service considerations are factored into the reform process.

The primary responsibilities of the steering committee include offering technical guidance, facilitating reform implementation, overseeing technical committees formed for specific tasks, and reviewing the recommendations put forward by these committees. This ensures a structured and well-coordinated approach to the execution of reforms.

CS Kindiki also emphasized the importance of improving working conditions for police officers, ensuring they have the necessary resources to carry out their duties effectively. These reforms aim to provide officers with the support they need to better serve the public and fulfill their mandate.

The committee will operate for a period of three years and will have the authority to regulate its own procedures. It may also establish sub-committees to handle specific tasks, ensuring that the reform process is efficient and comprehensive.