IPOA seeks expanded mandate to oversee armed state agencies

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) may soon gain expanded powers to oversee armed state agencies, including prison warders, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) rangers, and Kenya Forest Service (KFS) officers, during a recent National Assembly Departmental Committee hearing. Dr. Duncan Ojwang Oburu, nominated to chair IPOA, supported the reforms, stating that civilian oversight should extend to institutions where officers exercise coercive powers or handle firearms.

He cited a pending Bill in the Senate to expand IPOA's authority to regulate Kenya Forest Services and KWS. However, implementing the expansion would require additional resources and personnel to enable IPOA to effectively discharge its broader mandate. The proposal received support from Narok West MP Hon. Gabriel Tongoyo, who highlighted instances of armed officers outside the National Police Service being accused of misconduct.

Dr. Ojwang argued that extending oversight to the prison service was logical, given IPOA's current focus on police operations and detention facilities. He emphasized that the proposed changes would necessitate legal amendments and potentially a name change to reflect the expanded mandate. The reforms aim to address growing concerns over firearm use by State officers and demand stronger civilian accountability mechanisms.

Dr. Ojwang warned against viewing the reforms as an attempt to undermine armed agencies, emphasizing that IPOA's role is to ensure accountability and constitutional safeguards. He also called for increased powers and resources, including arrest authority, warning that expanding IPOA's jurisdiction without proportional funding would hinder its effectiveness.