Addressing the press, Murkomen noted that the reforms were inspired by past and ongoing incidents of police misconduct, and aimed at rebuilding accountability through structural change.
Table of Contents:
1. CCTV Surveillance in All Police Stations
All 1,209 police stations across Kenya will be equipped with CCTV surveillance systems over the next two years. The systems will be managed by the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) and will have external backups.
“It shall be mandatory to equip police stations with CCTV surveillance to enhance transparency. The OCS will be responsible for ensuring they function 24/7. Any faults must be reported within an hour,” Murkomen stated.
Legislation will also be proposed to criminalize tampering with the surveillance systems.
2. Digital Reporting to Replace Paper OBs
In a move to modernize reporting and reduce manipulation, the ministry will digitize all Occurrence Books (OBs) within the next year. This aligns with the BETA program on public digitization.
“We are committed to a tamper-proof digital system that will track all reported incidents,” said Murkomen.
3. Community Policing to Strengthen Trust
Each police station will be required to implement a community policing model to foster better engagement between officers and local residents.
“Improving relationships with citizens will lead to greater accountability and a safer society,” Murkomen emphasized.
4. Independent Audits of Police Practices
The ministry will establish a framework for regular independent audits of police practices, procedures, and the use of resources. These audits will involve stakeholders such as civil society and religious leaders.
Murkomen highlighted the introduction of performance evaluations that consider community feedback, with top-performing officers and stations receiving recognition and awards.
5. Mandatory Annual Ethical Training for Officers
A mandatory annual training program will be introduced, starting with OCSs, to instill constitutional values and ethics in the police service.
“This is the first step toward restoring professionalism and discipline across all ranks. We’ll work with the National Treasury and Parliament to secure resources,” Murkomen said.
These reforms signal a bold step by the government to transform policing in Kenya. With increased digital oversight, public engagement, and accountability, the NPS is expected to move closer to the ideals of constitutional policing and service delivery.
