Kenya is poised to launch a sweeping overhaul of its policing framework, designed to enhance transparency, professionalism, and public trust.

The Ministry of Interior outlined the reforms, which include a series of legislative proposals designed to address misconduct, strengthen oversight, and improve operational efficiency.

“We are reviewing key Police Laws as part of the broader Police Reforms, and the goal is clear: a Police Service that is friendly, trustworthy, and reliable,” the Ministry said in a statement on Thursday September 4, 2025.

It emphasised that cases of police misconduct should be tackled decisively on an individual basis rather than through blanket condemnation. This approach underpins the proposed Independent Policing Oversight Authority (Amendment) Bill 2025, which seeks to enhance the authority’s investigative and oversight powers.

The reforms aim to ensure policing aligns with public expectations and community needs. “The public’s demands for safety and security are both pressing and valid, underscoring the need for clearer structures, defined functions, and operational protocols that enhance efficiency, accountability, and professionalism within the Police,” the Ministry added.

The National Police Service (Amendment) Bill 2025 is designed to respond directly to these concerns.

Merit-based recruitment and welfare enhancements

Recruitment of police officers is set to move online, providing greater transparency and ensuring hiring is conducted on merit. This initiative forms part of the National Police Service Commission (Amendment) Bill 2025, which strengthens the NPSC’s human resource functions, including recruitment, promotions, and transfers

The Ministry also acknowledged long-standing challenges faced by officers and their families regarding delayed welfare and compensation. “To change this, the National Police Service Veterans & Fallen Heroes Bill will formally recognise, register, and support police veterans and the families of the fallen,” the statement highlighted.

Forensic reforms and public order management

Recent mass grave exhumations in Kilifi have exposed the urgent need for rigorous forensic protocols. The National Forensic Science Bill establishes a dedicated framework for DNA testing, chain-of-custody management, and accredited labs to assist investigators and courts in handling sensitive evidence.

The Ministry also proposed the Public Order Management Bill 2025 in response to the violent protests of 2024/25. The bill sets clearer rules on notice requirements and designated zones, aiming to reduce chaos, injuries, and property destruction while promoting the responsible exercise of rights.

These reforms collectively aim to modernise Kenya’s police service, making it more accountable, efficient, and attuned to community expectations while enhancing transparency in recruitment, operations, and oversight.