NAIROBI, Kenya—Former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson Ahmed Isaack Hassan has returned to the public eye following his nomination to serve in a state agency.
This is after the National Assembly approved Hassan as the chairperson and seven (7) others as members of the Board of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
The members include Ann Wanjiku Mwangi, Mich Onyiego Nyakego, Boniface Kipkemoi Samati, and Annette Mudola Mbogoh.
Others include John Muchiri Nyaga, Kenwilliams Nyakomitah, and Jackline Lukalo Mwenesi.
Key facts about Isaack Hassan
Y News understands that Hassan was the first IEBC chairperson under the current Constitution and is expected to serve as the third chairman of the commission overseeing the police service for six years following his approval by the National Assembly.
Hassan is an advocate of the High Court of Kenya and has 30 years of experience as a legal practitioner and consultant in various countries, including Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Namibia, and Afghanistan.
Hassan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law (LL. B) from the University of Nairobi, a Postgraduate Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law, and a Contemporary Public Administration Management Diploma from Galilee International Management Institute, Israel.
Hassan was one of 100 people shortlisted for a High Court seat in March 2024 after the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) revealed openings for 20 slots.
He had previously been shortlisted for a position at the Court of Appeal but had failed to cut.
What is the mandate of IPOA
IPOA was established through an Act of Parliament published in November 2011 to provide for civilian oversight of the police’s work in Kenya.
Article 244 of the Constitution requires the police to strive for the highest discipline and professionalism and promote and practice transparency and accountability in executing their duties.
IPOA holds them accountable to this standard. The inaugural Board was sworn into office in June 2012.
Following his approval by the Board, Hassan and his new colleagues will replace Anne Makori and her team, whose term ended on August 31. They have served since September 2018.
