The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has escalated its concerns over recent police conduct during nationwide protests by calling for the arrest of acting Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, and Nairobi Police Commander, Adamson Bungei. This unprecedented move by IPOA follows weeks of scrutiny and frustration over what they deem unprofessionalism and excessive force by the police.
During an appearance on Citizen TV’s Daybreak show on Wednesday, IPOA Commissioner John Waiganjo expressed the authority’s deep dissatisfaction with the behavior of police officers over the past month. He highlighted the lack of cooperation and transparency from police commanders, which has hindered IPOA’s efforts to obtain necessary information and hold officers accountable.
“We are very frustrated when we do not get information from the police commanders,” Waiganjo stated, underscoring the challenges IPOA faces in its oversight role. The authority’s decision to seek judicial intervention reflects the severity of their concerns and their commitment to ensuring accountability within the police force.
The nationwide protests, which have gripped various regions of Kenya over the last four weeks, have seen numerous clashes between protesters and police officers. Reports of excessive force, arbitrary arrests, and human rights violations have surfaced, prompting IPOA to take a firmer stance.
IPOA’s mandate includes investigating complaints against the police and recommending disciplinary actions or prosecutions where necessary. The call for the arrests of Kanja and Bungei marks a significant step in holding senior police officials accountable for the actions of their subordinates.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the judiciary will respond to IPOA’s demands. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how police misconduct is addressed in Kenya, potentially leading to more rigorous oversight and accountability mechanisms within the police force.
For now, IPOA’s stance sends a clear message that unprofessional conduct by police officers will not be tolerated, and those in command will be held responsible for the actions of their officers. This development is likely to fuel ongoing debates about police reforms and the role of oversight bodies in safeguarding citizens’ rights during times of civil unrest.
