Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has dismissed claims of a parallel command structure within the National Police Service (NPS), insisting that all units operate under the authority of Inspector-General Douglas Kanja.
Murkomen said the Constitution gives the Inspector-General operational command of the Service, including investigations, promotions and deployments.
He spoke on Friday, September 4, 2026, during the 59th passing-out parade of Administration Police Service recruits at the National Police College, Embakasi ‘A’ Campus in Nairobi, in an event presided over by President William Ruto.
Murkomen backs Kanja
Murkomen dismissed suggestions that some police units operate outside the command of the Inspector-General, describing the claims as “false propaganda.”
He expressed confidence in Kanja and the leadership of the National Police Service, saying the Inspector-General remains in charge of the Service.
The CS said policy guidance from the Interior Ministry is issued in writing, while the day-to-day running of the Service remains under the Inspector-General.
He also reiterated the Government’s commitment to protecting the independence of the National Police Service from external interference.
“The Inspector-General remains firmly in charge,” Murkomen said.
Police reforms continue
The CS said the Government was implementing recommendations of the Maraga-led National Taskforce on Police Reforms to build a professional, properly equipped and people-centred police service.
Among the reforms are changes to police training, with the curriculum placing greater emphasis on human rights, constitutionalism and the rule of law.
The Government has also increased investment in police welfare, including medical care, remuneration, housing and mental health support.
A three-phase salary review has raised the basic salary of police constables by 36 per cent, while housing programmes have been expanded.
The service has also introduced technology into its operations, including a multi-biometric identification system, e-Citizen police-hire services and a digital occurrence book.
5,080 officers graduate
Murkomen said the new officers would strengthen efforts to combat banditry and terrorism, improve border security and address personnel shortages within the Service.
President Ruto urged the recruits to exercise restraint and accountability while enforcing the law, reminding them that their authority comes from the Constitution and the people.
“This entire reform programme is undertaken in the public interest and financed with public resources,” the President said.
Ruto said officers must protect freedoms of expression and assembly, reject corruption and treat citizens fairly, adding that the success of police reforms would be measured by how Kenyans experience the Service.
The ceremony also honoured Kenyan officers who died while serving in Haiti under the Multinational Security Support Mission. Ruto laid a wreath and received the contingent’s flag in tribute to their service.
Murkomen said the Government would continue supporting the National Police Service as it works to become more professional, properly equipped and people-centred.