Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on Thursday announced sweeping reforms targeting police stations, officer uniforms, and promotion procedures across Kenya.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the OCS Consultative Conference at the National Police Leadership Academy (NPLA) in Ngong, Murkomen said funds will be allocated in the next supplementary budget to redesign police stations nationwide. The revamped designs will feature gender desks, OCS offices, child protection desks, CCTV surveillance, and properly secured armouries. ICT equipment will also be integrated to ensure fully functional stations.
Murkomen explained that the Department of Public Works and TVET institutions will collaborate with police leadership under the Inspector General to modernise structures and ensure uniformity in new constructions. The first phase will focus on 300 stations, with plans to roll out the model nationwide.
The CS also outlined reforms in recruitment, announcing official dates for new intakes to be released by Monday, with exercises expected in September as directed by President William Ruto.
On uniforms, Murkomen said all police officers and National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) will receive new attire. Female officers will benefit from maternity uniforms, ensuring pregnancies do not force leave due to ill-fitting clothing.
Regarding promotions, Murkomen revealed a new legal framework will guide progression, remuneration, and schemes of service. He emphasised that corporals with 15 years’ service and constables aged 50 should be promoted on merit to address rank stagnation. The framework will also clarify transfers and station postings.
Finally, Murkomen directed senior leadership to propose a reward scheme recognising exemplary officers, with recommendations expected soon.
