State to allocate Sh106 billion to implement Maraga taskforce reforms - Ruto

The government will now require Sh106 billion to implement the recommendations of former Chief Justice David Maraga-led National Taskforce on Police Reforms within the National Police Service (NPS), Kenya Prisons Service (KPS), and the National Youth Service (NYS), President William Ruto has revealed.

Speaking on Wednesday during the launch of the reforms in Lower Kabete, Ruto said the funds will address key challenges such as career progression, the digitisation of records, and the procurement of new equipment.

According to the President, Sh22 billion will be allocated to improving officers' compensation packages, Sh37 billion for upgrading hardware and welfare reforms, and Sh45 billion will support the modernisation of the services.

“We appreciate the considerable financial implications of the full implementation of the changes prescribed by the Maraga taskforce. It is estimated that it will cost Sh106 billion to fully actualise these recommendations,” Ruto said.

The President confirmed that the National Treasury will contribute part of the funds, with the remainder to be provided by investors.

To oversee the reforms, Ruto issued several directives. He noted that Ministries and agencies will coordinate with the National Steering Committee appointed by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki. He said any challenges faced must be swiftly addressed through the committee.

Additionally, public participation will be integral in developing policies and any constitutional changes. NPS, KPS, and NYS are required to complete their modernisation plans within three months and the Treasury must ensure adequate funding for the reforms.

Further, Ruto announced that the government has procured 1,000 e-vehicles for police officers to improve mobility and revealed plans to build 32,000 houses for security personnel.

“Some of our officers live in conditions comparable to prisons. That cannot be the case. That's why we extended the housing program to include institutional housing for our military, police, NYS, and prisons,” he said.

The taskforce committee which will be chaired by Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, includes Principal Secretaries from the National Treasury, State Department for Correctional Services, State Department for Public Service and Cabinet Affairs.

Other members are the Solicitor General from the State Law office, the Inspector General of the National Police Service, the Kenya Prisons Service Commissioner, National Youth Service Commandant, along with Chairpersons of the National Youth Service Commission and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority.

The Steering Committee also includes representatives from the Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Public Service Commission, the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, the National Youth Service Council, and the Kenya Law Reform Commission.

The committee will be responsible for mobilizing resources, preparing quarterly progress reports, and conducting studies or research as needed.

It will develop a detailed plan in line with the task force’s recommendations, and monitor the reform's progress over the next three years.