After over a three-decade lull, fresh police commanders selected directly from the general public have today graduated in a colourful ceremony presided by H.E President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Two hundred and ninety-eight cadets who underwent a nine-month training were hence deployed to stations across the country where they would assume the roles of middle-level managers, and holding the ranks of Inspector of Police.
The last such batch of cadet inspectors was inducted into Police Service in 1989 and in 2006, specialist officers were likewise admitted into similar ranks.
Independent Policing Oversight Authority Chairperson Mrs. Anne Makori was among top officials who graced the ceremony at National Police Service Training College Main Campus in Kiganjo, Nyeri County.
As the President witnessed the officers take their oath of allegiance, he called on them to shun partisan enforcement of the law and instead serve all sundry without discrimination and devoid of political intimidation.
H.E President Kenyatta told the fresh officers: “You are joining the security sector at a time when we are implementing significant reforms in the security sector, with a view to restore the place of pride of our security organs. At the same time, the Kenyan Society at large is also experiencing significant transformation; particularly in terms of the expectations of the citizens. Therefore, you should expect Kenyans to demand more of your quality service than any previous crop of officers.”
He added: “I am, however, confident that if you apply your training, maintain discipline and integrity, and faithfully follow the orders of your superior officers, you will have long, distinguished, and rewarding careers in the Service.”
Among those who graduated today are 78 female officers.
Today’s cohort is the largest to be admitted as direct entry Inspectors in post independent Kenya.
The President went on: “Rise to the courage and exceed the expectations of many. You represent the service and government’s solemn commitment to protect and serve. I urge you to serve Kenyans with humility and professionalism in accordance with the oath you have taken today.”
The officers’ recruitment in February targeted university degrees holders, among other qualifications.
Prior to their graduation, Mrs. Makori has on two occasions delivered lectures to the officers on various aspects of modern policing, including the roles and mandate of IPOA as well as adherence to human rights.
Over the decades, police officers have been recruited at the lowest rank – Police Constable – and rise through the ranks to managerial positions after serving for specified periods with interludes during which they must attend promotional courses.
President Kenyatta concluded:” I urge each of you graduands, to serve Kenya with fidelity to the oath you have taken today, to serve our People with courage and integrity, and to bring honour to yourselves, your families, the Service, and the Nation by your professionalism, excellence, and commitment to duty.”