Members of Parliament are considering a proposed amendment to the National Police Service Act that seeks to introduce a strict age limit of 60 years for individuals nominated and appointed to the offices of Inspector-General (IG) and Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Police.

The National Police Service (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which has been tabled on the floor of the parliament for discussion on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, aims to streamline leadership within the police service by ensuring that top officials possess the physical and mental capacity required to handle the demanding nature of the roles.

“The principal object of the Bill is to amend the National Police Service Act, Cap. 84, to provide for an age limit of sixty years for persons nominated and appointed to the offices of Inspector-General and Deputy Inspector-General of Police,” the proposed amendment bill read in part.

Lawmakers backing the proposal argue that the changes will enhance efficiency, accountability, and succession planning in the service.

A key provision in the bill introduces a disqualification clause barring any person who has attained the age of 60 from being appointed as IG or DIG. This is intended to align leadership appointments with the broader public service retirement framework, while also creating opportunities for younger officers to rise through the ranks.

Term limits for Deputy Inspectors-General

In addition to the age cap, the bill proposes a fixed term limit for deputy inspectors-general. Unlike the current framework, where DIGs are exempt from the mandatory retirement age, the amendment introduces a single five-year term limit. This is expected to address concerns over prolonged tenure in senior positions and promote regular leadership renewal.

“The Bill also seeks to include a term limit for deputy inspectors-general, noting that they are exempted from the mandatory retirement age of sixty years. The Bill seeks to ensure that persons appointed to the offices can handle demanding situations within the police service and to help balance between the need to retain experienced leadership and allow for succession planning within the service, the Bill added.

The legislative proposal further outlines several structural amendments to the existing law. Clause 2 of the bill seeks to amend Section 11 of the existing Act to align it with the introduction of a new Section 11A, which will anchor the revised appointment framework. Clause 3 provides clearer qualifications and disqualifications for appointment, reinforcing the age restriction.

The bill also highlights the appointment process and tenure of deputy inspectors-general while also removing outdated provisions under Section 13 that previously governed these appointments.

The bill further clarifies that it does not delegate legislative authority to the Cabinet Secretary, nor does it infringe on any fundamental rights and freedoms, addressing potential constitutional concerns.

If passed, the proposed law could significantly reshape the leadership structure of the National Police Service, setting new standards for accountability, efficiency, and generational transition at the highest levels of policing.