Dr Duncan Ojwang Approved as New IPOA Chairperson

Kenya’s National Assembly has approved the nomination of Dr. Duncan Ojwang Oburu as the next Chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), paving the way for his formal appointment to the position.

Dr. Ojwang is set to succeed Justice Ahmed Issack Hassan, who left the IPOA chairmanship on February 17, 2026, following his appointment as a Judge of the Court of Appeal of Kenya. IPOA Vice Chairperson Anne Wanjiku Mwangi has been serving as acting chairperson since then.

During his approval hearing before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security on August 12, Dr. Ojwang pledged to safeguard IPOA’s independence and uphold the authority’s mandate without fear or favour.

“I believe I am courageous. I speak truth. Trust me with that responsibility. We will speak truth to power.”

His nomination was made by President William Ruto in July 2026 and subsequently forwarded to Parliament for consideration.

With Parliament having approved his nomination, the process now awaits formal communication by Speaker Moses Wetang’ula to the President, after which Dr. Ojwang can receive his official appointment and take the oath of office.

A Key Role in Police Oversight

Dr. Ojwang’s appointment comes at a critical time for Kenya’s policing oversight framework. IPOA is mandated to provide civilian oversight over the work of the National Police Service, investigate complaints and incidents involving police officers, and promote accountability within the service.

His commitment to protecting the authority’s independence is therefore expected to be closely watched as he takes over the leadership of the institution.

The new chairperson will be responsible for steering IPOA’s oversight mandate while maintaining public confidence and ensuring that police accountability remains central to the authority’s work.