Constitutional lawyer Willis Otieno has called out the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), likening it to a communications unit for the police.

In a post on his X account on Saturday, June 27, 2026, the lawyer expressed concern about what he described as the oversight body’s handling of matters related to police accountability.

Otieno argued that public confidence in IPOA continues to decline whenever it issues statements on matters involving the police, claiming the authority appears more focused on defending the image of the National Police Service than independently investigating complaints.

Willis Otieno’s criticism towards IPOA

In his X post, Otieno wrote, “Every time IPOA speaks, public confidence takes another hit.”

He continued, “Instead of acting like an independent oversight body, they too often sound like a crisis communications unit tasked with managing the police’s image.”

The lawyer further claimed that IPOA’s public position changes as new information emerges.

“Their story shifts whenever new evidence surfaces. Yesterday’s certainty becomes today’s qualification. Today’s denial becomes tomorrow’s ongoing investigations.”

Otieno said an oversight institution should be guided by independence and accountability.

“Oversight without courage is theatre. Independence without accountability is a costume. If your job is to hold power to account, stop sounding like you’re taking instructions from it.”

Justice concerns

The lawyer also questioned what he described as inconsistencies in the handling of different cases by the justice system.

“Those accused of storming a church and attacking worshippers walked free within a day. Those who peacefully protested found themselves in court just as quickly.”

He added:

“When violence appears to attract more leniency than peaceful dissent, people are bound to question whether justice is being applied consistently.”

Otieno concluded by expressing concern about public confidence in the administration of justice.

“Justice is supposed to be blind. In Kenya today, many fear it recognises faces, affiliations, and political convenience before it recognises facts.”

IPOA position

Otieno’s remarks come amid continued public debate over police accountability following recent demonstrations and other high-profile incidents that have attracted public attention.

By the time of publication, IPOA had not publicly responded to Otieno’s remarks or the concerns he raised in his X post.

The authority had also not issued any statement specifically addressing the allegations contained in his post.