Inside IPOA push for peaceful protests and professional policing
By Bancy Lole, May 31, 2026The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has intensified efforts to foster trust between police officers and the public, calling for peaceful demonstrations and stronger collaboration to enhance national cohesion, security and respect for human rights.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ engagement forum held at the NG-CDF Hall in Kerugoya on May 29, 2026, IPOA Chief Executive Officer Elema Halake said the authority is committed to narrowing the gap between police and wananchi through sustained community engagement, accountability mechanisms and dialogue.
“We are here to build trust between the police and the public and encourage cooperation in maintaining peace and security,” Halake said.
He emphasised that security is a shared responsibility and urged residents to work closely with law enforcement officers through initiatives such as Nyumba Kumi to help prevent crime and promote peaceful coexistence.
Accountability within NPS
Halake reaffirmed IPOA’s commitment to ensuring accountability within the National Police Service while supporting officers to carry out their duties professionally and within the law.
“Professional policing and public confidence go hand in hand. We want citizens to feel protected and officers to serve with integrity and respect for the law,” he said.
The IPOA CEO further encouraged members of the public to report cases of police misconduct through the authority’s toll-free hotline 1559, noting that the service operates 24 hours a day.
“Any person who experiences or witnesses police misconduct should report it through our toll-free line. We are available day and night to receive complaints and take appropriate action,” he added.
Importance of professionalism
IPOA Commissioner John Muchiri Nyaga said the authority has continued to engage both officers and civilians on the importance of professionalism, lawful conduct and restraint, particularly during public demonstrations.
Nyaga noted that while the Constitution guarantees the right to assemble and demonstrate, incidents of violence, destruction of property and provocation often heighten tensions and risk confrontations between police and protesters.
“Demonstrations should be conducted peacefully to avoid situations that may escalate and result in unnecessary confrontation between police officers and members of the public,” Nyaga stated.
He urged Kenyans to exercise their constitutional rights responsibly and avoid acts that may undermine public order.
“The right to demonstrate must go hand in hand with responsibility. Violence and destruction only create tension and make it difficult to maintain law and order,” he said.