EACC launches audit of police service bid to root out widespread culture of bribery
EACC chairman David Oginde challenged Douglas Kanja to be the first police IG to decisively root out corruption in the force.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched an audit of the National Police Service (NPS) to tackle corruption and strengthen accountability within the force.
The exercise, which began at the Embakasi Police Campus, is expected to review policies, procedures, and operational practices to identify and address systemic weaknesses that enable graft.
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The initiative presided over by EACC Chairperson David Oginde and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja marks a significant collaboration between the two agencies.
Oginde emphasised the need for a united front in combating corruption, citing findings from the 2023 report that highlighted weak systems and a widespread culture of bribery within the police force.
"As you are aware, corruption remains a challenge that erodes the very foundation of our society. It distorts fair competition, undermines public trust in public officials and institutions, and diverts resources away from critical services and developmental projects. Working together we can seal systemic loopholes that enable corruption in the operations of the National Police Service," he said.
Oginde urged IG Kanja to take the lead in ensuring that police officers refrain from taking bribes, noting the hierarchical nature of the service and the impact a directive from the top could have.
"Let us also recognise that this examination is just the beginning of a broader journey. The ultimate impact of this process will depend on its implementation. A medical examination is not treatment. Treatment depends on whether the patient takes the 10 prescribed medicines," he said.
The EACC chairman also challenged Kanja to be the first IG to decisively root out corruption in the force.
"We have seen several leaders who have implemented our proposals and performed very well. IG, this is a unique opportunity for you to make a difference in our nation. May you be the first IG remembered for decisively dealing with corruption within the police service. Just like the story of the Roman Centurion, corruption can end in one day... If the IG says there is no more corruption, it will end," Oginde said
IG Kanja welcomed the audit and pledged full cooperation with the EACC, reaffirming his commitment to reforming the police service.
He noted the importance of strengthening oversight mechanisms, automating services, and leveraging technology, including toll-free hotlines and anonymous reporting platforms, to curb corruption.
EACC CEO Abdi Mohamud, a former police officer, acknowledged that while the police service is an honourable profession, some individuals within it have tarnished its image. He urged officers to uphold integrity and ensure accountability in their work.
The audit, which officially commenced on Monday, February 11, will run until July 18, 2025.
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