Ruto addresses police officers' health cover concerns as he makes order on uniforms

President William Ruto makes an addresses during a previous event on January 7, 2023. [Kibata Kihu, Standard]

President William Ruto has assured members of the Police Service that they and their family members will get comprehensive medical insurance cover starting January 1, 2023.

The president also said that fully-equipped hospitals dedicated to serving members of the Police Service will be opened soon.

"The hospitals will ensure that members of the police service finally have access to priority and appropriate facilities for physical and mental wellness," the Head of State said on Tuesday, January 10, when he presided over the passing out parade of police officers at the Kenya Police Training College in Kiganjo, Nyeri County.

The president also tasked the national police leadership to consult with the government and fast-track the delivery of housing for members of the service.

Ruto also directed the Inspector-General of Police Japhet Koome to ensure that the Police Service provides fresh recruits with uniforms at no cost, saying no officer should use own his or her own money to buy police uniform.

In 2020, some junior police officers had complained that they had been asked to buy police uniform using their own resources.

"It is my expectation that these officers will be given quality uniforms which meet the standards for our policemen and women. The officers should wake up every morning knowing that the Government of Kenya stands behind them," said President Ruto.

The Head of State asked the fresh recruits to serve Kenyans diligently and professionally.

"My good officers, serve all professionally and selflessly, with honour, respect and dignity without hesitation, fear or discrimination and in keeping with your motor Utumishi kwa Wote," he said.