Mombasa: Stakeholders in Mombasa have expressed mixed reactions over the ongoing public participation exercise by the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) on the Draft Recruitment and Appointment Regulations, 2025. The proposed regulations aim to streamline the framework for recruiting members of the Service, promote transparency, and ensure a merit-based selection process.
According to Kenya News Agency, during a forum at Tononoka Social Hall, Coast Civil Network Societies Chairperson Zedekiah Adika remarked that the commission had not provided the public with the guiding document on the proposed regulations, making it difficult for them to give informed views. Adika emphasized the necessity of having access to the document for meaningful public contributions.
He highlighted past issues of corruption and the enlistment of unsuitable candidates in police recruitment exercises, stressing the importance of a competent police service in the future. Stakeholders urged the commission to extend the submission deadline, allowing for virtual or email participation.
Haki Yetu Organisation Director Peter Kiama echoed these concerns, stating that the lack of access to the draft regulations undermines public participation. Kiama proposed that the NPSC should manage all human resource functions for the police, including recruitment, promotions, and transfers, and suggested independent oversight for the recruitment process.
Mwakera Mwajefa, a Mombasa resident, stressed the importance of prioritizing the mental well-being of recruits alongside physical and medical fitness. Meanwhile, Zuleikha Abdalla, another Mombasa resident, called for more engagement with young people, citing their low turnout at the event and existing strained relations with the police.
Mombasa Sub-County Police Commander Nicholas Kipkemoi noted that the meeting served as an opportunity for residents to share views, which would be considered in the final regulations to enhance the recruitment process.