Githunguri Member of Parliament Gathoni Wamuchomba has questioned what she calls “unfair and discriminatory” police and military recruitment rules that disqualify candidates due to dental discolouration.
Speaking through a post on X, Wamuchomba expressed concern that many young people in her constituency are being locked out of opportunities to serve in the National Police Service (NPS) and Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) simply because of their teeth.
“During police and military recruitments, many of my voters complain that they were dropped because they have dental issues despite passing physical and fitness tests,” she said. “My constituency has water fluoride issues that generally cause discolouration of teeth in some areas.”
She further questioned the relevance of such medical requirements, asking, “Is there a policy or protocol that dictates that discoloured teeth can’t hold a gun or operate a parachute?”
Applicants seeking to join the disciplined forces are required to meet several criteria, including being Kenyan citizens aged between 18 and 28, holding at least a KCSE mean grade of D+, and meeting specific height standards. They must also be medically and physically fit, with no criminal record. However, during health examinations, some candidates are reportedly disqualified due to missing or stained teeth.
Wamuchomba’s remarks have reignited debate over the fairness of these standards, particularly for residents in regions affected by high fluoride levels in water, such as parts of Kiambu, Baringo, and Nakuru counties.
Critics argue that such dental imperfections do not affect a person’s physical ability or performance in the line of duty and that recruitment policies should be reviewed to promote inclusivity.
Security officials, however, insist the medical checks are necessary for ensuring recruits are in optimal health for demanding operational environments.
As the debate continues, many Kenyans are calling for a review of the recruitment criteria to ensure that patriotic citizens are not unfairly excluded due to natural or environmental factors.
