Maraga Gives President Ruto One Week to Publish Police Reforms Report
Former CJ David Maraga demands President Ruto release the police reforms report within seven days or he will make it public himself.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 18, 2026
2 min read
Former Chief Justice David Maraga has issued a seven-day ultimatum to President William Ruto to publish the National Taskforce on Police Reforms report. The report, submitted over two years ago, outlines key recommendations to restore the independence and effectiveness of the National Police Service (NPS).
In a letter addressed to the President on Tuesday, Maraga expressed concern over the government's inaction since the taskforce delivered its findings on November 16, 2023. He cited recent unrest during political events in Homa Bay, Keumbu, and Ol Kalou, as well as violence at churches in Kisumu, Nairobi, and Witima, as indicators of the worsening policing situation under the current administration.
Maraga warned that if the report is not published within the stipulated timeframe, he will release it himself. He emphasized that the report was produced using public funds and invoked Article 35 of the Constitution, which guarantees access to information.
Background of the Police Reforms Taskforce
President Ruto appointed Maraga in December 2022 to chair a 23-member taskforce tasked with reviewing and improving the welfare and operations of the National Police Service and Kenya Prisons Service. The team identified issues such as political interference, corruption in recruitment and promotions, inadequate training, and insufficient resources for the National Police Service Commission.
Key recommendations from the report include:
- A phased 40% salary increase over three years to reflect the risks and cost of living for police officers.
- Reclassifying the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service, and National Youth Service under a distinct security sector framework to better regulate remuneration and terms of service.
- Upgrading institutional housing and expanding medical insurance coverage for uniformed personnel.
Maraga's demand underscores the urgency of implementing reforms to address the challenges facing Kenya's security sector and restore public confidence in policing.
