In the intricate tapestry of a nation's security apparatus, the harmonious collaboration between key institutions is paramount. Unfortunately, recent wrangles between the National Police Service Commission and the Inspector General of Police have cast a dark shadow over the effectiveness of Kenya's law enforcement.
The internal discord not only undermines the integrity of these institutions, but also poses a grave threat to the overall security landscape of the nation. These unending conflicts are detrimental to not only the members of the police force, but also the broader security interests of the country.
One of the most immediate casualties of the ongoing discord is the erosion of public trust in the police force. When key stakeholders within the law enforcement machinery engage in public disputes, it creates an impression of disarray and inefficiency. Citizens, already grappling with concerns about crime and safety, find it difficult to place confidence in a police force that appears to be marred by internal strife. The perception of a fractured law enforcement system can significantly undermine the police's ability to garner public cooperation and support.
Effective policing demands a seamless flow of communication and collaboration between the NPSC and the Office of the Inspector General. However, the current discord has led to impaired decision-making and coordination. Critical decisions related to resource allocation, strategic planning and response to emerging threats require a united front. The inability of these institutions to work in harmony hampers the overall efficiency of the police force, leaving it ill-equipped to address the evolving challenges in the realm of security.
Amidst the internal bickering, the focus of both the commission and the IG has shifted from their core duties. Instead of concentrating on enhancing the capacity and capabilities of the police force, they find themselves entangled in disputes over jurisdiction and authority. This diversion of attention detracts from the imperative task of ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of the police in maintaining law and order.
A stable and well-functioning command structure is pivotal to maintaining the morale of the police force. The protracted disputes between the NPSC and the IG create an atmosphere of uncertainty and discontent among rank-and-file officers. Morale is a critical factor in law enforcement, influencing officers' commitment, dedication and effectiveness. A disheartened and demoralised police force is ill-suited to confront the myriad challenges it faces daily.
The ongoing conflicts have created a breeding ground for political interference and manipulation within the police force. Politically motivated interventions can compromise the impartiality and independence of law enforcement agencies, leading to a situation where the police become instruments of political will rather than defenders of public safety. The consequences of such interference can be dire, with potential repercussions on the rule of law and democratic principles.
At a broader level, the wrangles between the NPSC and the Inspector General have severe implications for national security. A fragmented police force, distracted by internal disputes, is ill-prepared to tackle emerging security threats. From terrorism to organised crime, the challenges facing Kenya demand a cohesive and agile law enforcement response. The failure to address these issues promptly and effectively jeopardises the safety and well-being of the entire nation.
The ongoing conflicts between the NPSC and the IG are a perilous dance that Kenya can ill-afford. The erosion of public trust, impaired decision-making, diversion from core duties, diminished police morale, political interference and the overarching implications for national security collectively paint a grim picture. It is imperative for both parties to set aside their differences and prioritise the greater good – the safety and security of the Kenyan people.
A united and efficient police force is not just a matter of institutional pride; it is the cornerstone of a stable and thriving society. The time for resolution and reconciliation is now, as the consequences of continued discord reverberate far beyond the confines of internal disputes.
It is time the commission, led by chairman Eliud Kinuthia and IG Japhet Koome urgently resolve the hopeless differences and perform the duties we pay them for. Otherwise they should both resign and allow the country to get more committed people to serve in those crucial offices. After all, they do not seem to posses any unique skills or qualifications.
The writer is a political commentator