Access to justice for victims of police misconduct is set to improve, following joint efforts by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) to operationalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two entities in 2024.
Last week, IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan together with Commissioners hosted LSK President Faith Odhiambo and the leadership of the Law Society of Kenya at the IPOA headquarters, to establish institutional collaboration with the goal of supporting victims of police misconduct.
They discussed the implementation of the 2024 MoU, which outlines a joint framework aimed at strengthening police accountability, promoting human rights, and expanding access to justice.
The MOU also aims to strengthen institutional capacity through strategic engagement and shared responsibilities under Kenyan law.
IPOA Chairperson noted that the disregard for the law by some police officers is the key factor fuelling public agitation. He emphasized the need for the Chief Justice to consider the recommendation of establishing a special court to prosecute police officers.
Ms. Odhiambo pushed for an improved case-tracking mechanisms to facilitate LSK to help the Authority fast-track its cases at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). “As IPOA, you need to introduce a tracking mechanism upon submission of files to the ODPP,” she said.
Reiterating IPOA’s commitment to strengthening public-police relations, Vice Chairperson Ann Wanjiku appealed to the Law Society of Kenya for continued support in advancing this mandate. “We are committed to our work in ensuring that the police engage more effectively with the public, and we thank the Law Society of Kenya for being the entity that amplifies this work. We ask that you continue to be that strong voice, even as we lobby for arrest and prosecutorial powers,” she stated.
Ms. Wanjiku further observed that police interference and lack of cooperation continues to hinder IPOA’s investigations, emphasizing that expedited prosecutions would help build momentum, especially with the 2027 elections on the horizon.
IPOA and LSK also explored the possibility of joint legal aid efforts and police reform advocacy. They both reaffirmed their commitment to continue collaborating to uphold justice and protect human rights.