State reviewing 6 police laws to ensure reliable service – PS Omollo

Principal Secretary for the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo has stated that the government is reviewing key police laws.

This is as part of the broader police reforms aimed at ensuring that the police service that is friendly, trustworthy and reliable.

The proposed legislative changes are intended to enhance transparency, accountability, professionalism and public trust in the National Police Service.

“Cases of police misconduct should be addressed decisively and on an individual basis, not through blanket condemnation,” Omollo said.

He noted that this is the basis for the proposed Independent Policing Oversight Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which seeks to strengthen IPOA’s investigative and oversight powers to better handle misconduct within the police ranks.

Omollo emphasised that the public’s demands for safety and security are both “pressing and valid,” and require well-defined structures and operational protocols within the police service.

“The National Police Service (Amendment) Bill 2025 directly responds to these concerns, ensuring reforms that align policing with our people’s and community expectations,” Omollo said.

Among the proposed changes is the digitalisation of police recruitment, part of the National Police Service Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which seeks to enhance transparency and ensure merit-based hiring.

The bill also strengthens the commission's role in recruitment, promotions and transfers of officers.

Addressing the longstanding issue of officer welfare, Omollo said many families of fallen officers face delayed compensation and unresolved claims.

“To change this, the National Police Service Veterans and Fallen Heroes Bill will formally recognize, register and support police veterans and the families of the fallen,” he added.

Addressing the recent exhumation of mass graves in Kilifi County, he said this highlighted the need for improved forensic capabilities.

To this end, the National Forensic Science Bill proposes the establishment of a dedicated forensic framework, including rigorous DNA testing standards, chain-of-custody protocols, and accredited laboratories to support investigations and court processes.

Finally, in response to the violent protests witnessed in 2024 and 2025, the Public Order Management Bill, 2025, proposes clearer regulations on public demonstrations, including notice periods and designated protest zones, in an effort to reduce chaos, injuries, and destruction of property while safeguarding constitutional rights.

Together, the six proposed bills form a comprehensive legislative package intended to reform policing in the country and restore public confidence in law enforcement institutions.