NAIROBI, Kenya – Duncan Ojwang Oburu has officially assumed office as the fourth Chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), beginning a six-year term at a critical time for police accountability in Kenya.
Dr Ojwang was sworn in during a ceremony at the Supreme Court of Kenya presided over by Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court Martha Koome. Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya administered the oath of office.
President William Ruto appointed Dr Ojwang after his nomination was approved by the National Assembly.
Speaking during the ceremony, Chief Justice Koome urged the new IPOA chairperson to discharge his responsibilities with independence, courage, fairness and respect for due process.
She said IPOA’s mandate was central to protecting citizens’ rights and upholding the rule of law, urging Dr Ojwang to ensure policing is carried out professionally, lawfully and with dignity.
“Lead IPOA with independence. Lead with courage and fairness. You must be firm, impartial and evidence-based, and be respectful of due process,” Koome said.
The Chief Justice also stressed the importance of strong institutions and cooperation among government agencies and other stakeholders in serving Kenyans.
Dr Ojwang’s Appointment Follows Six-Month Transition
Dr Ojwang succeeds Justice Ahmed Issack Hassan, who left the IPOA chairpersonship in February 2026 after being appointed a Judge of the Court of Appeal.
Following Justice Hassan’s departure, IPOA Vice Chairperson Ann Wanjiku Mwangi served as acting chairperson while the recruitment process was undertaken.
The process to appoint a substantive chairperson began in July 2026 after President Ruto constituted a panel to identify, interview and recommend suitable candidates.
Dr Ojwang was subsequently nominated by the President and subjected to public vetting by the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security, chaired by Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo.
During the August vetting, Dr Ojwang pledged to protect IPOA’s independence while ensuring the authority remains firm in holding police officers accountable.
He also proposed greater use of technology in policing and oversight, including body cameras and CCTV systems, to strengthen accountability and help address allegations of police brutality and deaths in custody.
The committee found him suitable for the position, and Parliament adopted its report on August 19.
President Ruto formally appointed Dr Ojwang through a Gazette Notice dated August 31, 2026.
New IPOA Chief Faces 2027 Election Challenge
Dr Ojwang takes charge of IPOA as Kenya prepares for the 2027 General Election, when police accountability and civilian oversight are expected to come under heightened scrutiny.
IPOA is mandated to provide civilian oversight over the National Police Service, investigate complaints and deaths resulting from police action, and promote accountability within the police service.
The new chairperson is expected to strengthen the authority’s handling of complaints and investigations while improving public confidence in its work.
During his vetting, Dr Ojwang highlighted the need for timely investigations, effective complaints handling and stronger use of technology in oversight.
He also emphasised collaboration with the National Police Service and other stakeholders while insisting that IPOA must retain its independence.
“The highest office is the sovereign office of the citizens,” Dr Ojwang said, stressing that Kenyans deserve to be policed with dignity and professionalism.
He further assured Kenyans that under his leadership, “truth will be spoken to power.”
Dr Ojwang’s Academic and Policy Background
The new IPOA chairperson brings a background in law, human rights, public policy and governance.
He holds a PhD in Law and Policy from the University of Arizona, a Master of Laws in Human Rights and International Law from Indiana University and a Juris Doctor degree from Southern Illinois University.
He has also worked in academia, including as a lecturer at the University of Nairobi and Dean and Senior Lecturer at Africa Nazarene University.
Dr Ojwang has participated in public policy and governance processes, including providing technical support during the National Dialogue Committee process.
IPOA Vice Chairperson Ann Wanjiku Mwangi welcomed him on behalf of the board, management and staff, saying his experience and perspective would add value to the authority and the people of Kenya.
Dr Ojwang’s swearing-in marks the beginning of a six-year tenure and a new phase for civilian oversight of policing in Kenya.
