A widening rift between the Kenya National Police Service Commission (NPSC) and the National Police Service (NPS) has raised significant concern about the state of police oversight and accountability in Kenya. The commission now accuses the police command of obstructing its constitutionally mandated duties, particularly in managing human resource functions across the service.
Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the National Assembly, NPSC CEO Peter Lelei pleaded with lawmakers to intervene. He revealed that the commission’s efforts to implement key policies — including recruitment, promotions, transfers, welfare, and disciplinary measures — have been stalled by resistance from the police leadership.
The Auditor General’s 2022/2023 report highlighted the commission’s failure to develop and implement a strategic plan addressing officers’ welfare and HR needs. Mr. Lelei attributed this inaction to persistent hostility from the police command and a lack of access to critical data, including the police payroll.
“We had difficulty accessing the payroll for audit to determine the implementation status of NPSC policies and resolutions,” said Lelei. He urged Parliament to step in and help the commission reclaim control of its mandate, even requesting the summoning of Inspector General Japhet Koome.
However, the commission’s stance was met with sharp criticism from several PAC members. Legislators accused the NPSC of negligence and failing to exercise the authority granted to it by the Constitution.
“You are being indolent because the Constitution gives you control over the NPS payroll. Go and work — don’t sit on your back,” said Dr. Wilberforce Oundo (Funyula MP).
Aldai MP Maryanne Kitany echoed this sentiment, arguing that the commission should already be undertaking audits instead of seeking help. She also rebuked the NPSC for lacking a coherent strategic plan.
Nabii Nabwera (Lugari MP) delivered a scathing assessment, comparing the commission’s failure to the biblical story of Jonah. He said the CEO appeared unaware of his responsibilities and was avoiding them deliberately.
This public clash reveals a troubling disconnect between the NPSC and the NPS, raising questions about the effectiveness of police oversight mechanisms in Kenya. As Parliament considers the next steps, all eyes will be on whether the commission can assert its constitutional authority and restore accountability in police human resource management.
