NAIROBI, Kenya – The National Police Service Commission (NPSC) has announced the recruitment of 10,000 police constables under new regulations that, for the first time, will see the entire exercise conducted online.
The move, unveiled on September 5, 2025, is aimed at eliminating the bribery, nepotism, and favouritism that have long plagued police recruitment in Kenya.
Of the total vacancies, 4,000 slots will be reserved for graduates of the National Youth Service (NYS).
“These regulations aim to streamline the recruitment of members of the Service, promote transparency, and ensure merit-based selection,” the Commission said in a statement.
The reforms, anchored in Section 28 of the NPSC Act, were developed following public consultations in 17 regions that drew input from civil society, community leaders, and other stakeholders.
How the system works
Applicants can now submit their details via the official portal services.npsc.go.ke, using a computer or smartphone.
They are required to upload scanned copies of key documents, including their national ID, KCSE certificate (minimum grade D+ in English or Kiswahili), birth certificate, and passport photo.
After submission, applicants will receive an acknowledgement slip with a reference number and await shortlisting updates via SMS, email, or the portal.
The Commission has warned that forged documents or false information will lead to automatic disqualification.
Government backs reforms
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who met with NPSC chairperson Yuda Komora and Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja to discuss the rollout, said the reforms are a turning point for the Service.
He also acknowledged past tensions between the NPSC and the police leadership over promotions and payroll but pledged harmony going forward.
“With the online system, police recruitment will be more secure, accountable, and accessible to all Kenyans,” Murkomen said.
For many years, police recruitment has been synonymous with corruption scandals, where candidates allegedly paid bribes or relied on political patronage to secure slots.
By going digital, the NPSC hopes to restore public confidence and give all qualified young Kenyans an equal shot at joining the Service.
