Kenyans seeking Certificates of Good Conduct may soon access faster and more efficient services if Parliament approves proposed legal changes aimed at streamlining the application and renewal process.

The Bill, sponsored by John Makali, seeks to remove the requirement for applicants to resubmit fingerprints each time they renew police clearance certificates.

The lawmakers say the move could significantly ease access to essential services for Kenyans, particularly job seekers and those living abroad.

Appearing before the House committee on April 23, 2026, Makali said the proposal is designed to modernise service delivery by leveraging technology.

“The primary objective is to ensure that once an applicant’s biometrics are captured, subsequent applications can be processed online without the need for physical appearance,” he said.

Delays at DCI part

He noted that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) currently processes about one million certificates annually, placing pressure on existing infrastructure and leading to delays.

If enacted, the proposed law will require the DCI to establish and maintain a secure biometric database that allows previously captured fingerprints and other data to be reused.

Lawmakers were told that this move would significantly reduce waiting times and decongest service points such as Huduma Centres and DCI offices across the country.

Committee Vice Chair Robert Pukose welcomed the proposal but sought assurances that the changes would not disrupt existing services.

Consideration for all Kenyans

In response, Makali assured the committee that services would not be disrupted.

“Certificates will still be issued, but the process will be fast-tracked. It will particularly benefit Kenyans abroad who currently have to travel back home just to submit fingerprints and our youth, having to physically visit centres to renew certificates of good conduct,” he said.

Members noted the public benefits, including reduced travel costs and improved efficiency.

“This is a progressive proposal that will ease the burden on applicants and enhance convenience,” said Florence Jematia.

However, MPs also raised concerns over the financial implications of implementing the system. The committee noted that the government is already upgrading the Automated Palm and Fingerprint Identification System (APFIS) to a Multi-Biometric Identification System (MBIS), a project estimated to cost Ksh 2.71 billion over five years.

Out of this amount, Ksh 1.138 billion has already been allocated, leaving a funding gap of approximately Ksh 1.57 billion. The upgrade is expected to be completed by the 2028/29 financial year.