Maraga releases task force report, calls for police overhaul

Former Chief Justice David Maraga released the National Taskforce on Police Reforms report on August 31, 2026, urging significant changes to Kenya's police leadership and the restoration of the National Police Service's independence. The taskforce, chaired by Maraga, made recommendations in November 2023, yet these have remained unimplemented since its submission to President William Ruto.

Maraga pointed out that certain legal changes introduced in the Security Laws (Amendment) Act of 2014 have weakened the safeguards meant to protect the police service's independence. He deemed these changes as weakening the system rather than reforming it. The taskforce proposed fresh vetting and appointment processes for senior police officers, including modifications to the method used to fill key leadership positions.

Maraga questioned the continued tenure of some senior officers beyond the statutory retirement age, asking what unique skills they might possess that others lack. He also linked partisan policing and organized political violence to concerns over the police service's independence, citing incidents of violence in Homa Bay, Keumbu, Ol Kalou, and churches in Kisumu, Nairobi, and Witima.

Maraga's decision to release the report came after Ruto failed to publish the complete and unedited document within a seven-day ultimatum issued by Maraga on August 18. The taskforce had submitted its recommendations on November 16, 2023, after assessing the necessary reforms for the National Police Service. Maraga had anticipated Ruto to publish the report during Katiba Day or a recent police recruits' parade, but instead, only new police uniforms were unveiled.

Maraga emphasized that restoring an independent police service is crucial for protecting Kenya's democracy and preventing political violence. He stated that without restoring the independence of the National Police Service, they would not have a functioning country. Maraga released the report on the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances as a tribute to those who have been abducted and forcibly disappeared.

He urged the implementation of the taskforce recommendations, stressing that reforms should address leadership, accountability, independence, and the protection of citizens' rights.