Murkomen Orders Sweeping Police Reforms After Ojwang’s Death Sparks National Outcry
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen has issued urgent reforms across all 1,209 police stations in Kenya. This follows growing national anger over the death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody.
Speaking on Monday, Murkomen directed that all stations must install functional CCTV cameras within two years. These cameras must have live monitoring capabilities and secure backup storage.
“Every police station must have operational CCTV systems monitored live by the OCS,” Murkomen declared.
Assault Cases Must Be Reported in One Hour
To tighten discipline, the CS ordered that all cases of misconduct or assault must be reported within one hour. The CCTV footage will now serve as primary evidence in such cases.
“Any delay or deletion of CCTV footage will be criminalised by upcoming legislation,” Murkomen warned.
These directives aim to increase police accountability and rebuild the shattered public confidence.
OB Books Go Digital Within a Year
Murkomen also announced a total digitisation of all Occurrence Books (OBs). The digital OBs will allow real-time tracking, auditing, and verification of every police entry.
“No more disappearing records. Every report must now be traceable and accountable,” the CS emphasized.
Civil Society Engagement and Officer Ratings Introduced
In a rare step, Murkomen unveiled a community-integration plan to improve public service and reduce abuse. Police will now work closely with religious groups, civil society, and local leaders. Their performance will be independently audited and publicly rated.
“Officers must show they are serving the people. Their performance will be evaluated openly,” he explained.
Top-performing officers and stations will receive public recognition and incentives.
Training Reforms: Officers to Undergo Mandatory Courses
To anchor the new changes, Murkomen has ordered immediate training for all OCSs. These courses will focus on constitutional rights, professional conduct, and rights-based policing.
“Training begins now. OCSs must uphold the highest standards of service and discipline,” he said.
Lagat in the Spotlight Amid Protests
Despite these sweeping changes, pressure is mounting on Murkomen to suspend Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, who is linked to the Ojwang death probe. However, the CS urged patience.
“The law must be followed. Everyone is innocent until proven guilty,” he reiterated.
Meanwhile, nationwide protests are set for Tuesday, with demonstrators demanding Lagat’s resignation
ALSO READ: OCS Taalam Accused of Tampering With CCTV Footage in Albert Ojwang’s Death Probe
Murkomen Orders Sweeping Police Reforms After Ojwang’s Death Sparks National Outcry
