PSC Releases Interview Dates for IPOA Chairperson and Member Candidates

The Public Service Commission (PSC) has officially announced the interview dates for the shortlisted candidates vying for the positions of chairperson and member of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA). This announcement is a significant step in the process of selecting individuals who will play a vital role in overseeing police conduct and ensuring accountability in the law enforcement sector.

Overview of IPOA and Its Significance

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is a crucial institution in Kenya, established to enhance police accountability and oversight. Its primary mandate is to provide civilian oversight over the police service, investigating incidents of police misconduct, and ensuring that police officers adhere to the law and human rights standards. The chairperson and members of the IPOA are responsible for steering the organization’s operations, making decisions on policy matters, and ensuring the effective implementation of its mandates.

Given the sensitive nature of policing in Kenya, the selection of qualified and competent individuals for these roles is of utmost importance. The PSC has undertaken the responsibility of identifying suitable candidates who possess the necessary qualifications, experience, and integrity to fulfill these roles.

Shortlisted Candidates for Chairperson and Interview Schedule

The selection panel has shortlisted eight candidates for the position of chairperson. The interviews for this role are scheduled to take place on October 22 and 23, 2024. According to the PSC’s announcement in the Friday dailies, the candidates will be interviewed as follows:

Day 1: October 22, 2024

• 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  • Thomas Letangule
  • Annah Konuche
  • Patrick Blasius Owiny
  • Mercy Wambui Kamau

Day 2: October 23, 2024

• 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Wayong’o Cyril Simiyu
  • Juliet Wanjiku Muremi
  • Richard Barno
  • Ahmed Issack Hassan

This two-day interview process aims to assess the candidates’ qualifications, experience, and vision for the IPOA, ensuring that the selected chairperson is well-equipped to lead the organization.

Interview Schedule for Members

In addition to the chairperson, the PSC has shortlisted 37 candidates for the position of member of the IPOA. The interviews for these candidates are slated for October 24 to October 30, 2024. The interview schedule for the member position is as follows:

Day 1: October 24, 2024

• 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Anab Mohamed Gure
  • Micah Onyiego Nyakego
  • Laxmana Peter Kiptoo
  • Jackline Lukalo Mwenesi
  • Mohamed Abdi Haji Mohamed
  • Francis Meja
  • George Omondi Afulo

Day 2: October 25, 2024

• 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Symon Kaitikei Rotiken
  • Faith Muthoni Gichovi
  • Mary Lucy Mongony
  • Teresia Jerusah Michael
  • Fred Opiyo Jonyo
  • Elizabeth Atieno Ayoo
  • Abdirahman Adan Abdikadir

Day 3: October 26, 2024

• 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Mark Lomunokol
  • Alex Cleland Atingo
  • Paul Mugambi Mwenda (PWD)
  • Florence Wairimu Muturi
  • Ann Wanjiku Mwangi
  • Collins Wanderi Munyiri
  • Annette Mbogoh
  • Joseph Njonjo Nkamasiai

Day 4: October 27, 2024

• 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Mary Yiane Seneta
  • Rukia Ahmed Sheikh (PWD)
  • Zachary Kamau Mwangi
  • Stephen Mwachofi Singo
  • Beverly C Moss
  • Ken Williams Nyakomitah
  • Susan J Wendot
  • John Muchiri Nyaga

Day 5: October 30, 2024

• 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Mohammed Hussein Gabbow
  • Boniface Kipkemoi Samati
  • Diana Mutunga Watila
  • Sylvia Cherotich Chelogoi
  • Richard Mativu Musau (PWD)
  • Moses N Mbaruku
  • Wilfred A Nyagwanga

Each day of interviews will provide an opportunity for the panel to evaluate the candidates’ qualifications, knowledge of policing issues, and ability to contribute to the oversight and accountability of police services in Kenya.

Requirements for Candidates

The selection panel has outlined specific requirements for the shortlisted candidates to ensure a smooth and effective interview process. Candidates are required to:

1. Arrive on Time: Each candidate must be present at the interview venue at least 15 minutes before their scheduled time.
2. Documentation: Candidates must carry original documents, including:
   • National identity card
   • Academic and professional certificates and transcripts
   • Any supporting documents and testimonials
3. Clearances: Candidates are also required to provide valid and current clearances from various authorities, including:
   • Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)
   • Higher Education Loans Board (HELB)
   • Registered Credit Reference Bureau (CRB)
   • Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI)
   • Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC)
4. Recognition of Qualifications: For candidates with degrees obtained from foreign universities, a letter of recognition from the Commission for University Education (CUE) is necessary.
5. Professional Recommendations: Where applicable, candidates should provide a recommendation letter or certificate of good standing from relevant professional bodies.

Public Participation in the Selection Process

In a bid to promote transparency and public involvement in the selection process, the PSC has invited members of the public to contribute any credible information regarding the suitability of the shortlisted candidates. Individuals can submit their feedback through an affidavit addressed to the chairman via email at ipoa2024@publicservice.go.ke. Alternatively, submissions can be made through the Office of the Secretary/CEO, Public Service Commission, located on the 4th floor of Commission House, off Harambe Avenue, Nairobi, no later than October 16, 2024.

This initiative reflects the commitment of the PSC and IPOA to uphold public trust and accountability in the selection process, ensuring that the chosen individuals will effectively serve the interests of the Kenyan public and enhance police oversight.

Conclusion

The upcoming interviews for the chairperson and member positions of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) mark a crucial step in shaping the future of police accountability and oversight in Kenya. The Public Service Commission’s efforts to involve the public and uphold transparency reflect a commitment to a fair selection process. As the nation anticipates the outcomes, it is essential for the selected individuals to uphold the integrity and effectiveness of IPOA, contributing to improved policing standards and human rights protection in Kenya.