The National Assembly has addressed the ongoing issues surrounding police recruitment amid tensions between the National Police Service (NPS) and the National Police Service Commission (NPSC).
During a session of the Committee on Implementation of the Constitution, chaired by Suab South MP Caroli Omondi, Inspector General Douglas Kanja and the NPSC chair expressed concerns about the overlapping roles regarding police recruitment.
The Committee, which met with both parties on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, resolved to invite further consultations with key stakeholders before making recommendations to the House of National Assembly. This is essential to establish a clear stance on the matter.
National Assembly Steps in to Resolve Stalemate in Police Recruitment Between NPSC and NPS
Lawmakers warned that the continued disputes could interfere with the integrity and unity of the police service.
Additionally, they highlighted rising tensions over funding for new police recruitment, with the NPSC alleging that the budget was directed to the NPS, thereby undermining the Commission’s independent mandate to oversee recruitment processes.
Central to the disagreement is the management of payroll and other overlapping human resource functions.
The NPSC insists that payroll management falls under its constitutional responsibilities, while the Inspector General argues that relinquishing this function would diminish his authority over police operations.
Also Read: Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Police Recruitment Online
According to the lawmakers, Article 245 of the Constitution grants the Inspector General operational command of the NPS, including the implementation of policy decisions, coordination of police operations across the nation, and the deployment of officers below the rank of Superintendent.
President Ruto Urges NPSC and NPS to Quickly Resolve Police Recruitment Stalemate
Meanwhile, Article 246 establishes the NPSC as the body responsible for human resource management within the police service, which includes recruitment, appointments, promotions, transfers, disciplinary control, and oversight of training standards and curricula.
The nationwide recruitment of 10,000 police constables in Kenya, planned for the 2025/2026 financial year, was scheduled to begin in early September 2025. Advertisements were expected to be posted around September 11, with recruits set to report to training colleges by November 17.
Also Read: Ruto Announces Nationwide Police Recruitment for 2025
However, as of September 17, 2025, the process remains stalled due to the ongoing conflict between the NPSC and the NPS, led by Inspector General Douglas Kanja. This dispute revolves around control over recruitment, payroll management, and budget allocation, raising concerns about transparency, independence, and the potential for favoritism or corruption in the hiring process.
The stalemate has prompted direct intervention from President William Ruto. As Commander-in-Chief and chair of the National Security Council, President Ruto has emphasized the urgency of resolving the conflict to ensure that national security and public trust are not compromised.
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