Inspector General Japhet Koome Kanja has assured Kenyans that the upcoming nationwide police recruitment drive will be free from corruption, favoritism, and malpractice. The exercise, scheduled for Friday, October 3, 2025, seeks to enlist 10,000 new officers into the National Police Service (NPS).
Kanja emphasized that this recruitment is not just a hiring process but part of the ongoing police reforms aimed at restoring public trust in the service. “This time, the exercise will be guided solely by merit, qualifications, and performance,” he stated.
The IG outlined several measures already in place to ensure fairness. These include strict screening criteria, physical fitness tests, and interviews that will prioritize meritocracy. Candidates must meet educational standards, demonstrate physical and mental readiness, and pass integrity checks.
To deter corruption, oversight teams will conduct surprise visits to recruitment centers across the country. The public has also been urged to report any irregularities, including bribery or favoritism, through a toll-free hotline (0800 722 203) or WhatsApp (0709 570 000). All reports will be treated confidentially and investigated promptly.
Kanja warned both recruits and officers against engaging in corrupt practices. “Offering money or using fake documents will lead to immediate rejection and possible prosecution,” he said. Officers caught soliciting bribes or showing favoritism will face dismissal and criminal charges.
The IG further highlighted other reform milestones, including the introduction of a digital Occurrence Book system, enhanced training on human rights and ethics, and stronger community policing programs. These, he said, are steps toward creating a police service that Kenyans can trust.
He encouraged eligible youth to apply with confidence, assuring them of a fair process. “Your talent and dedication are what matter. This is your opportunity to join a reformed NPS and contribute to national security,” Kanja affirmed.
