Human rights organizations, including **Vocal Africa**, have called for the complete disbandment of the **National Police Service (NPS)** in Kenya, citing widespread corruption as a critical issue. The groups issued a statement on **October 11, 2023**, declaring the existing police system to be “irredeemably broken” and demanding “urgent, fearless, and total disbandment and recruitment” of a new police force. They dismissed proposals for reform as insufficient, asserting that the NPS is “beyond repair” and emphasizing the need for a new policy model to be established from scratch.
The call for drastic measures follows a report from the **Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC)**, which highlighted the NPS as the most corrupt institution in Kenya. According to the report, **48.2 percent** of survey respondents identified the NPS as the government agency most associated with unethical practices and corruption. In contrast, only **5.1 percent** pointed to the **Directorate of Immigration**, the second most-doubted national institution. Furthermore, **27.6 percent** of those surveyed considered police officers to be the most corrupt government officials, while **29.9 percent** stated that police officers were the most likely to accept bribes.
Despite a growing awareness of corruption, many Kenyans who admitted to paying bribes to police believed that doing so improved their chances of receiving police services. This troubling reality underscores the challenges faced by the nation in addressing police misconduct.
In response to the rampant corruption, organizations have proposed a series of systematic changes. They recommend devolving police responsibilities to regional commissioners, who would oversee recruitment, discipline, and officer accountability. Additionally, they suggest raising the minimum educational qualifications for recruits, increasing the number of female officers, and empowering independent bodies like the **Independent Policing Oversight Authority** and the **National Police Service Commission** to ensure effective oversight.
The urgency of these reforms is underscored by recent events in Kenya. Public outcry has surged amidst a backdrop of political unrest and anti-government protests. In **June 2024**, protests erupted over increased taxation during a cost-of-living crisis, which many young people attributed to the government’s failure to tackle corruption. President **William Ruto**, facing backlash, has been nicknamed “**Zakayo**,” a reference to the biblical figure known for corruption.
The protests intensified following the death of a teacher in police custody, leading to significant public outrage. On **July 7**, at least **31 people** died, and more than **500 were arrested** during demonstrations that marked the **35th anniversary** of the country’s multi-party democracy. The **United Nations** condemned the police’s use of excessive force during these protests, which included rubber bullets, tear gas, and live ammunition.
The **National Ethics and Corruption Survey**, published annually by the EACC, serves as a vital tool for understanding the extent of corruption in public institutions in Kenya. This year’s report highlights that the country loses an estimated **$6 billion** annually to corruption, with **three out of four Kenyans** reportedly having witnessed or participated in police corruption.
As the situation unfolds, the stakes remain high for the people of Kenya. The demand for a reformed police force reflects a broader call for accountability and transparency in governance, with human rights organizations insisting that immediate action is necessary to restore public trust in law enforcement.
