The National Police Service (NPS) has reaffirmed its commitment to constitutional policing, professionalism, impartiality and accountability as it prepares to discharge its security mandate ahead of Kenya’s August 2027 General Election. The Service says these principles will remain central to its operations as it works to ensure a peaceful, secure and democratic electoral process.
Speaking on behalf of Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja during the official opening of the Missing Voices Annual Journalists’ Training Programme at Voyager Beach Resort in Mombasa, NPS Spokesperson and Director of Corporate Communications Muchiri Nyaga, AIG, said the Service remains ready to work with stakeholders to safeguard the electoral environment.
The training programme has brought together journalists from across the country to strengthen their capacity to report on elections, security, police accountability, human rights and media ethics. The engagement comes at a critical time when accurate and responsible reporting is expected to play an important role in informing the public and reducing tensions during the electoral period.
Nyaga underscored that the NPS derives its mandate from the Constitution and must exercise its responsibilities within the law. He said the Service’s operational approach is anchored on professionalism, impartiality and accountability, principles that are particularly important during elections when public scrutiny of police conduct is likely to intensify.
The NPS spokesperson also acknowledged the contribution of Missing Voices and other civil society organisations in engaging with the police on accountability and human rights issues. According to Nyaga, constructive engagement with civil society helps identify institutional gaps, improve policing systems and strengthen public confidence in the Service.
Journalists were similarly reminded of their critical responsibility in covering police operations and security-related developments. Nyaga said accurate, ethical and responsible journalism can promote accountability, discourage misconduct and help prevent misinformation that could potentially heighten tensions during the election period.
The renewed commitment by the NPS places public trust at the centre of preparations for the General Election. By emphasising constitutional policing and respect for human rights, the Service is seeking to reassure Kenyans that security operations will be conducted professionally and without discrimination, while remaining accountable to the law and the public.
Nyaga further stressed that effective policing cannot be achieved by the NPS alone. He called for continued collaboration between the police, media, civil society and other stakeholders, arguing that constructive engagement and shared responsibility will be essential in creating a peaceful electoral environment. The NPS therefore says it remains dedicated to professional service delivery and protecting the democratic process as Kenya approaches the polls.
