Uasin Gishu Residents Demand Transparent, Bribery-Free Police Recruitment
“Police officers have been put on the spotlight for years because recruitment is marred by bribery and a lack of transparency. This has to change,” one participant said.
Some of the anti-riot police officers deployed in Eldoret CBD to contain ongoing protests. Image by Meshack Kipchumba
By Jessica Nyaboke
Residents of Uasin Gishu County have urged the National Police Service to ensure that the upcoming police recruitment exercise is conducted transparently and free from bribery.
During a public engagement forum, community members expressed concerns over long-standing allegations of corruption and favoritism during past recruitment drives.
“Police officers have been put on the spotlight for years because recruitment is marred by bribery and a lack of transparency. This has to change,” one participant said.
Speaking to the media, Police Commissioner in charge of the service, Edwin Cheluget, assured the public that the process will be fair, inclusive, and merit-based.
“Only qualified candidates will be recruited into the service without discrimination. They will then undergo training at the Police Training School. We are gathering views from the public across the country to make the recruitment process more transparent,” Cheluget said.
He added that the National Police Service Commission has introduced new regulations requiring stakeholder consultations before the recruitment begins, a process expected to start soon.
Vicar Omar, a representative from the Asian community, called for inclusivity in the exercise.
“There is not a single police officer from my community. We too deserve an equal opportunity to serve, just like everybody else,” he said.
From Turbo, Joseph Tanui, a retired police officer, appealed to be included in the vetting teams, citing his experience and knowledge of the recruitment guidelines.
“I have served in the force, I know the rules, and I can help ensure the process is fair,” Tanui said.
Eldoret-based human rights activist Benson Okumu emphasized the need for better remuneration for police officers.
“Police officers are independent citizens, yet much is expected from them. The government must pay them well to match their responsibilities,” Okumu stated.
The nationwide stakeholder forums are part of broader reforms aimed at restoring public confidence in the police service.
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