NAIROBI, Kenya- The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has thrown its weight behind a parliamentary proposal seeking the introduction of a digital tracking system for police firearms, describing the move as a critical step toward enhancing accountability and strengthening oversight within the country’s security sector.
LSK President Charles Kanjama said the transition from manual armory registers to an automated system incorporating biometric technology or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags would create a reliable and tamper-resistant record of firearm issuance and use.
“The recent parliamentary petition seeking a digital tracking system for police firearms is a vital step toward modern governance,” Kanjama said.
According to the LSK president, a digitized system would ensure that every firearm issued by the State is traceable, every discharge is properly recorded, and any allegations of misuse can be independently verified.
He argued that such technology would help eliminate gaps associated with manual record-keeping while enhancing transparency in the management of police weapons.
“Every firearm issued by the State should be traceable, every discharge accounted for and every allegation of misuse capable of independent verification,” Kanjama stated.
The proposal comes amid growing calls for stronger accountability mechanisms within law enforcement agencies, particularly in investigations involving the use of firearms by security officers.
Kanjama noted that while technology alone cannot eliminate misconduct, it can significantly improve oversight and provide investigators with credible evidence when examining complaints involving police firearms.
“Technology cannot replace integrity, but it can significantly strengthen oversight and support the vital work of institutions such as IPOA in safeguarding the rule of law,” he said.
The LSK said it fully endorses digitized security management systems, describing them as a minimum requirement for promoting constitutional accountability and public confidence in policing.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has in recent years faced challenges in tracing the movement and use of firearms linked to allegations of excessive force and unlawful shootings.
Supporters of the proposed digital system argue that automated tracking could help improve investigations by providing a clear electronic trail of weapon issuance, usage, and return.
If adopted, the system would mark a significant shift in the management of police firearms, aligning Kenya with emerging global practices that use technology to enhance transparency, accountability, and public trust in security institutions.
