TAITA TAVETA, Kenya – Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has criticized the High Court’s decision that declared the police reforms taskforce, led by former Chief Justice David Maraga, unlawful.
The ruling, delivered by Justice Lawrence Mugambi, deemed the formation of the 23-member taskforce unconstitutional, claiming it violated constitutional provisions regarding the role of the National Police Service Commission (NPSC).
Speaking in Taita Taveta County during the Jukwaa la Usalama security forum, Murkomen expressed his dissatisfaction with the court’s verdict, which he argued undermined efforts to address the welfare of police officers.
The taskforce, which was established by President William Ruto, was tasked with reviewing and recommending reforms for the National Police Service, focusing primarily on improving the working conditions of officers.
“Courts should be considerate about the welfare of police officers,” Murkomen said, expressing disappointment that the judiciary had rejected a taskforce aimed at addressing the very issues that police officers continue to face.
He pointed out that many of the concerns raised by officers during his ongoing coastal tour, such as housing, equipment, mobility, and promotions, were directly aligned with the objectives of the taskforce.
“It’s unbelievable that a judge assigned officers with similar issues being shared across the country would declare a taskforce looking into the officers’ welfare unconstitutional,” Murkomen added, emphasizing the need for reforms to improve police working conditions and operational effectiveness.
We are collaborating with Members of the National Assembly through NG-CDF to expand infrastructure that enables government services to be brought closer to the people.The newly constructed Kamtonga Police Station, fully funded through Mwatate NG-CDF, will enhance security in
The ruling by Justice Mugambi not only deemed the taskforce unlawful but also declared any actions or decisions made by the taskforce invalid.
The court found that the President had overstepped his mandate by establishing the taskforce, which should have been within the purview of the NPSC, as per the Constitution.
Murkomen condemned the judgment, calling it irresponsible and warning that it could hinder the critical reforms that have been long overdue in the National Police Service.
He reiterated that the Interior Ministry has been committed to a comprehensive overhaul of the police force, including housing improvements, acquisition of modern equipment, adoption of new technologies, and human resource reforms.
The Interior CS has long been advocating for improvements in police welfare and is pushing for reforms that will address the myriad challenges officers face, which range from inadequate housing and low morale to issues of transfers, promotions, and renumeration.
In his visits across the six counties, officers have repeatedly raised these concerns, underscoring the importance of a dedicated taskforce to tackle them.
Murkomen’s criticism of the ruling is part of an ongoing debate over the balance of power between the Executive and the Judiciary, particularly regarding the role of the President in initiating reforms within national institutions.
As the case unfolds, the future of police reform in Kenya remains uncertain, with Murkomen urging the government to find alternative ways to address the pressing needs of the police force.
