Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) exposed flaws derailing the police recruitment process.
IPOA, in their recommendations presented to Police Reforms Taskforce led by former Chief Justice David Maraga on Thursday, February 2, noted that the loopholes had affected the service delivery of the recruits.
The oversight body accused the police service's recruitment arm of non-adherence to appointment regulations enshrined in the National Police Service Commission (NPSC).
It also listed the lack of a manual setting out of physical and medical standards among the issues derailing the police recruitment exercise.
The authority further observed that the police sidelined its officers during the recruitment exercise.
"2015's recruitment regulations only recognise accredited observers as well as the Panel and makes no mention of IPOA. Due to this, IPOA is treated like any other Observer," IPOA's draft policy statement read in part.
The Maraga-led task force also heard cases of malpractice in the service during recruitment including those of corruption, nepotism, bribery and unfair quota distribution.
Also, the recruitment of senior police officers was flawed to an extent.
To address flaws in the recruitment process, IPOA recommended the streamlining of the sector to address emerging issues on time.
They also called for cooperation between police and IPOA to avoid facing legal battles in the recruitment process.
"Review the NPSC (Recruitment and Appointment) Regulations, 2015, to address emerging issues in recruitment including psychometric tests, aptitude tests, medical examination and physical fitness.
"Better cooperation between the National Police Service Commission, the National Police Service and the Authority is required. Significantly, the Service, through the Office of the Inspector General, should strengthen cooperation with the Authority," IPOA recommended.
"Notably, the IG invited the Authority to monitor the Police Cadet Recruitment exercise but the monitors were not allowed to fully monitor the exercise," the oversight body added.
The taskforce is set to review the recommendations before submitting the proposal to President William Ruto which will be adopted in police reforms thereafter.
