Police reforms still a mirage as cases of brutality rise

Various initiatives, including creation of the Independent Police Oversight Authority (Ipoa), were meant to enhance reforms in the National Police Service.

It had been hoped that civilian oversight of the police, through Ipoa, would end lawlessness among police officers, including the brutality the law enforcers have been subjecting civilians to. Yet no action is being taken against officers who have been attacking innocent citizens.

A video of officers brutalising a student of Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology has been making rounds on social media.

The students had taken to the streets to protest against increased cases of insecurity at the institution.

Amazingly, all that the leadership of the National Police Service, led by Inspector General of Police Hillary Mutyambai, could do was claim that the officers had been interdicted.

Even worse is the fact the JKUAT student leaders had notified the police of their peaceful demonstration. Mutyambai must not protect rogue officers.