Political class accused of interfering with police service

Screengrab of Former Chairperson National Police Service Commission, Johnston Kavuludi. [Spice FM]

Former National Police Service Commission (NPSC) chairperson Johnston Kavuludi has accused the political class of interfering with the police service.

Speaking on Spice FM on Wednesday, June 12, Kavuludi said political interference has hindered efforts to transform the police service into an accountable institution.

“In my view, there has been a lot of interference from the political arena, which has hindered efforts to truly transform the police into a service that genuinely serves the Kenyan people,” he said.

Kavuludi defended Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja, who has faced calls to resign following recent failures within the service.

“We have a very competent IG. He has a great personality, is well trained, well informed, and is a down-to-earth individual whom we can trust,” said the former commission chair.

However, he raised concerns about the conduct of junior officers. “The problem is; can we place the same level of trust in many of the junior officers under him? That may not be the case.’’

While acknowledging progress in the police sector, Kavuludi said some senior officers continue to exploit their positions by misusing those under their command.

“I still believe we are not too badly off. However, there appear to be certain remnants within the police service, particularly in command positions, who seem intent on using lower-ranking officers to achieve objectives that are not aligned with the expectations of society,’’ he added.

While reacting to Albert Ojwang’s case, a civilian killed by police in custody, Kavuludi said he expected Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat to step aside to allow for an impartial investigation.

“In Albert’s case, where proper conduct and institutional hygiene are expected, I would anticipate that Lagat would say, I know I’m innocent, and I’m willing to step aside to allow investigations,” he said.