Dr Duncan Ojwang Oburu, nominee for chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), assured the National Assembly committee of his commitment to uphold the authority's independence and vigorously defend the rights of Kenyans.

Speaking before the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security on August 12, 2026, Dr Ojwang emphasized the need to balance cooperation with the National Police Service and maintaining IPOA’s autonomous investigative role.

Commitment to Truth and Independence

"I believe I am courageous. I speak truth. Trust me with that responsibility. We will speak truth to power," Dr Ojwang told MPs, underscoring that IPOA must remain independent when probing police misconduct or handling complaints.

He clarified that collaboration with the Inspector-General of Police should not be mistaken for subordination, especially during investigations and oversight activities.

Enhancing Transparency and Accountability

  • Installation of CCTV cameras in all police stations
  • Use of body cameras by officers on duty
  • Digitalisation of police records to prevent tampering

These measures, Dr Ojwang argued, are critical to improving transparency and reducing incidents of police brutality and deaths in custody.

Strengthening IPOA’s Capacity

The nominee highlighted the staffing shortfall at IPOA, which currently operates with roughly 300 employees against an approved establishment of about 1,300. He called for increased resources and personnel to effectively oversee over 100,000 police officers nationwide.

Dr Ojwang also supported expanding IPOA’s oversight mandate to other armed State agencies such as the Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Forest Service, and prison services, advocating for civilian oversight of all officers wielding coercive powers.

Legal Qualifications and Institutional Stability

In response to queries about his legal credentials, Dr Ojwang explained his extensive experience teaching constitutional and human rights law for over a decade, which qualifies him under the Constitution for judicial appointments. He has engaged the Council of Legal Education to obtain formal admission to practise law in Kenya.

He pledged to protect IPOA staff from political interference and ensure institutional stability, noting that secure employment conditions are vital for maintaining staff morale and independence.

Addressing Challenges and Enhancing Collaboration

Dr Ojwang acknowledged IPOA’s backlog in processing complaints due to limited capacity and advocated for strategic prioritization, alternative dispute resolution, and stronger partnerships with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and other accountability bodies.

He recounted a personal family experience of police abuse during the 1982 coup attempt, which fuels his dedication to human rights and police accountability.

"If approved, IPOA will remain focused on protecting citizens while ensuring police officers act professionally, respect human rights, and are held accountable," he concluded.

The committee will assess his responses before forwarding a recommendation to the National Assembly on his appointment.