EACC set to audit police operations

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched an audit into the National Police Service (NPS) systems in a move which seeks to tame graft in the country.

According to the commission, the audit exercise held at the Embakasi Police Campus presided over by EACC Chairperson David Oginde and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja will introspect the NPS policies, procedures and practices of the work to address loopholes that encourage corruption in the service.

The partnership provided a framework for the two agencies to put their differences aside and work together for a better nation free of corruption.

The collaboration between EACC and the NPS aims to provide appropriate advice on how to address the identified weaknesses in the service, and will also provide technical support and guidance in the implementation of its recommendations.

Speaking at the event, Oginde cited key corruption issues at NPS as highlighted in the 2023 report including weak systems and an entrenched culture of bribery, noting that corruption would be rooted out from the top downwards.

He underscored the role of the collaboration, urging all stakeholders to have their hands on deck as the surest way to fight graft.

“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.

“The goal of the review is to take a proactive and strategic approach to detecting vulnerabilities, assessing potential hazards, and developing successful preventive actions. It is a dedication to fostering an environment of honesty and responsibility within the Service so that it effectively fulfils its mission.”

The EACC boss consequently tasked IG Kanja to be on the frontline to ensure NPS remains intolerant to bribes and corruption which has tarnished the service’s name in the public domain.

He referred to the police officers’ nature of submitting to their superiors and urged the IG to give an order requiring that no officer collects bribes, which he believes the police will adhere to.

“Let us also recognize 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.

“We have seen several leaders who have implemented our proposals and performed very well. Mr. 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.”

IG Kanja lauded the move by the EACC and committed to working closely with the anti-graft body to achieve his promise of transforming the police service and making a police station a centre of excellence for government services.

He also reiterated the NPS’s commitment to strengthening oversight mechanisms, automating services, and leveraging technology including toll-free hotlines and anonymous reporting platforms to effectively combat corruption.

EACC CEO Abdi Mohamud, on his part, cited his past role as a police officer saying the force is an honourable profession but there are bad people who tend to tame its image.

He urged officers to ensure the agency is better and responsive to issues in an accountable manner which ensures they do not abuse their law-given power before the public.

Following the launch on Monday, the exercise is expected to be conducted between February 11 and July 18, 2025.