IPOA Chairperson Nominee Pledges Truth to Power in Kenya

• Dr. Duncan Ojwang Oburu, who was nominated for the IPOA chairperson position. However, Isaack Hassan was sworn in as the new IPOA chairperson on August 13, 2026. During his approval hearing, Dr. Ojwang pledged to maintain IPOA's independence while fostering cooperation with the National Police Service.
• He emphasized the need for balance between functional independence and cooperation with the National Police Service in carrying out its oversight mandate.
• Dr. Ojwang proposed the installation of CCTV cameras in all police stations and the use of body cameras by police officers to enhance transparency and accountability.
• He called for digitalization of police records and expansion of IPOA's oversight mandate to other State agencies whose officers are authorized to carry firearms.

"I believe I am courageous. I speak truth. Trust me with that responsibility. We will speak truth to power," Dr. Ojwang told the committee during his approval hearing.

Dr. Duncan Ojwang Oburu, who was nominated for the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) chairperson position. However, Isaack Hassan was sworn in as the new IPOA chairperson on August 13, 2026. During his approval hearing before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security, Dr. Ojwang made significant promises. He pledged to maintain IPOA's independence while fostering cooperation with the National Police Service to improve policing and restore public confidence. Dr. Ojwang emphasized that IPOA's primary responsibility is to protect citizens and ensure police officers exercise their powers within the Constitution and the law. He highlighted the need for balance between functional independence and cooperation with the National Police Service, stating that some aspects of IPOA's work require complete independence, while others require cooperation.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) plays a crucial role in ensuring police accountability in Kenya. As an independent body, IPOA is responsible for investigating police misconduct, examining police operations, and handling complaints of abuse. Dr. Ojwang's nomination came at a critical time when the National Police Service faces allegations of human rights abuses and lack of transparency. The nominee emphasized that cooperation between IPOA and the Inspector-General of Police should not be confused with subordination, highlighting the need for IPOA to maintain its independence in carrying out its oversight mandate.

Dr. Ojwang's proposals for greater transparency and accountability in the National Police Service have significant implications for lawyers and compliance officers. The installation of CCTV cameras in all police stations and the use of body cameras by police officers could set a precedent for improved policing practices in Kenya. Additionally, Dr. Ojwang's call for digitalization of police records and the expansion of IPOA's oversight mandate to other State agencies whose officers are authorized to carry firearms demonstrate his commitment to enhancing transparency and accountability within the National Police Service.

Lawyers and compliance officers should take note of Dr. Ojwang's proposals for greater transparency and accountability in the National Police Service, including the installation of CCTV cameras in all police stations and the use of body cameras by police officers, which could set a precedent for improved policing practices in Kenya.

Source: Original reporting via The Star