Key issues that the Maraga task force on police reforms should address

Taskforce Chair Rtd Chief Justice David Maraga during the launch of the National Taskforce on the improvement of the terms and conditions of service and other reforms for members of the National Police service on January 10, 2023. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

As part of its work to improve terms and conditions of service for police and prison officers, the task force led by former Chief Justice David Maraga began taking views from stakeholders on Monday. Stakeholders include current and retired officers, members of civil society working on police reform, communities, and professional organisations.

The task force presents another opportunity for a candid conversation about policing in Kenya since the 2007-8 post-election violence (PEV) when the various commissions of inquiry and task forces recommended structural changes that became manifest after the 2010 Constitution was passed. Numerous improvements have been made since then. Officers and stations are more approachable; civilian oversight and other institutional changes have been made.