President Ruto says Govt will increase police salary by 40 per cent

President William Ruto has announced an intended 40 per cent salary increase for officers in the National Police Service (NPS), National Youth Service (NYS), and Kenya Prisons Service over the next three years. The decision follows the recommendations of the taskforce on police reforms, chaired by former Chief Justice David Maraga.

Ruto, upon receiving the recommendations at State House in Nairobi, endorsed the proposal, emphasising its importance in restoring integrity, efficiency, and accountability within the security forces. He stated, "Our primary objective is to secure the transformation of this nation by instituting a professional, efficient, effective security sector defined by integrity and accountability."

Acknowledging challenges raised by the taskforce, including corruption and underfunding affecting the welfare of security personnel, Ruto pledged a comprehensive review of living conditions, housing, and insurance to bring about positive changes in the sector. He directed relevant government organs to begin implementing these reforms, emphasising the need to address pay, medical cover, and other aspects of officers' welfare.

Ruto also committed to the reconstitution of the National Police Service, National Youth Service, and Kenya Prisons Service to align them better in terms of legislation and policies. Additional reforms include the institutionalization of long-term equipment modernization and the automation of human resource and finance management procedures.

Furthermore, the President pledged to ensure transparent processes in the recruitment, transfer, promotions, and payments of salaries and allowances within the security services. He emphasised the implementation of a policy where no officer serves in the same county for more than three years, highlighting the commitment to fairness and transparency in the promotion and recruitment processes.