A petition that had cast uncertainty over the ongoing police recruitment exercise has been withdrawn, offering temporary relief to the National Police Service (NPS).
The case, filed earlier this month by lobby group Sheria Mtaani, sought to challenge the fairness and legality of the recruitment process. However, during a court session on Tuesday, lawyers Danstan Omari and Shadrack Wambui representing the petitioners, requested to withdraw the case entirely.
According to the lawyers, the decision came after the organisation received overwhelming feedback from young Kenyans. More than 20,000 calls and messages reportedly urged Sheria Mtaani to intervene, highlighting concerns that halting the exercise would crush the aspirations of thousands of youths who had already invested scarce resources to attend recruitment centres.
The petitioners also emphasized the pressing need to fill staffing gaps in the service. With the 2027 general elections approaching, the police service is under pressure to strengthen its ranks. Attrition through retirements, alongside deployments to international missions such as the ongoing Haiti assignment, has further strained the force’s capacity.
Representing the Inspector General of Police, lawyer Paul Mjamodi confirmed that he had no objections to the withdrawal. Other parties in the case also expressed no opposition.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi, while allowing the withdrawal, noted that there was no basis to deny the application.
“I find no reason to deny the application for withdrawal. The matter is hereby withdrawn with no orders as to costs,” ruled Justice Mugambi.
The decision clears the way for the National Police Service to continue its nationwide recruitment drive without legal hurdles. For many hopeful candidates, the move offers renewed assurance that their pursuit of a career in law enforcement will proceed uninterrupted.
As Kenya prepares for future national challenges, including elections and rising security demands, the timely reinforcement of the police service remains a priority.
