Former police spokesperson and current Director-General of the National Communication Centre, Charles Owino, has called on the National Police Service (NPS) to urgently address what he described as a breakdown in communication, particularly during crises involving law enforcement.

Speaking during an interview on a local TV station on Thursday, June 12, 2025, Owino expressed concern over the inconsistent messaging coming from police leadership on controversial and sensitive matters, which he believes is contributing to public mistrust and confusion.

“In law enforcement on controversial issues, what should happen is, they need to sit as a team with a clear narrative after confirmation,” Owino advised.

“There is no room for speculation or contradictions when lives are lost or when public confidence is on the line.”

His remarks come in the wake of public outrage surrounding the death of Albert Ojwang, a young man who allegedly died in police custody under suspicious circumstances.

He said that a lack of clear and unified communication from the NPS has led to growing public anger, online uproar, and calls for independent investigations.

Owino stressed the importance of truth and transparency, especially in moments of national concern.

“We only have one Police Service, let us work with them,” he said. “But when such a thing happens, let us know the truth.”

Communication breakdown

He criticised what he termed the communications vacuum within the service, which he believes gives space for misinformation, speculation, and even manipulation by malicious actors.

“Criminals can create narratives and divert people’s attention to crucifying people who are not involved,” Owino cautioned. “It is imperative that the police take control of the narrative before others weaponise it against them.”

Owino, who served as the national face of the police for years, urged the current leadership to institutionalise communication protocols that ensure consistent, accurate, and timely updates are shared with the public, especially during high-stakes incidents.

He warned that silence, or conflicting statements from different officers, only deepens suspicion and weakens the legitimacy of the service.

“It’s not just about protecting the image of the Police Service; it’s about protecting its integrity by being honest with the people,” he said.

“Kenyans deserve to know what is happening — not in bits and pieces, but in a coordinated, truthful manner.”

The former police spokesperson also recommended regular joint briefings and rapid response units within the communication department to handle emerging issues and crises.

According to him, such steps are critical to preventing misinformation from gaining traction, especially in the digital age where news, true or false, spreads instantly.