Civil Society Organizations in Wajir County have called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to establish a local office to improve access to justice and strengthen oversight of police conduct.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ forum held in Wajir town, the organizations said the absence of an IPOA presence in the county has hindered timely reporting and investigation of cases involving alleged police misconduct.
They noted that residents face challenges in lodging complaints due to the long distance to existing IPOA offices, which discourages victims and witnesses from seeking redress.
The stakeholders cited concerns over reported cases of police brutality, arbitrary arrests and excessive use of force and urged IPOA to decentralise its services to address the gaps.
IPOA Commissioner Dr Micah Onyiego, accompanied by Northeastern Regional Coordinator Michael Kimatu, acknowledged the concerns and said the authority is working towards expanding its presence in underserved regions.
“We are committed to strengthening our engagement with communities and ensuring that all reported cases are investigated in accordance with the law,” said Onyiego.
He added that enhancing public awareness on IPOA’s mandate is key to improving accountability and building trust between the police and the public.
The forum brought together civil society groups, human rights organisations and representatives from oversight institutions to deliberate on policing challenges and accountability mechanisms in the county.
by Hamdi Buthul
