Maraga Questions New Police Uniform Procurement, Alleges Graft
Maraga, who chaired the task force, said the change of police uniforms was among more than 200 recommendations contained in its report submitted to President William Ruto in November 2023.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga has raised concerns over the new Kenya Police Service uniforms, accusing the procurement process of being tainted by corruption and a lack of transparency. Maraga, who chaired the National Taskforce on Police Reforms, questioned the implementation of the uniform recommendation out of over 200 recommendations made in November 2023.
He criticized the opaque process, stating that the attempt to implement the uniforms has already been marred by graft and opacity. The new uniforms, unveiled by President William Ruto, return to a traditional color scheme after a brighter blue was introduced in 2018/2019. Maraga's task force had previously criticized the blue uniform's introduction process, citing inadequate consultation and the National Uniforms Committee's role.
The National Police Service (NPS) rejected allegations of irregularities, stating that the contract for manufacturing and stitching the uniforms was awarded to Bedi Investments Limited. NPS denied involvement of Nalitex Limited, claiming the company did not participate in any aspect of the procurement. Maraga has since emphasized the need for the full implementation of the task force's recommendations, warning that cosmetic changes will not resolve deeper institutional issues.
He has called for an independent police service, transparent recruitment and promotion, and stronger accountability measures. Maraga has also criticized the delays in implementing the recommendations, warning that without reforms, public confidence in the police will not be restored.
Written by urgent.news from Capital FM Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
