IPOA commissioner JM Waiganjo accepts that IPOA could investigate cases quicker but justice is always slow.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority has come under fire for what appears to be its failure to police law enforcement officers.

In an exclusive interview on TV47, IPOA Commissioner JM Waiganjo came clean admitting that the Authority could do better in oversigting officers.

However, Waiganjo did highlight that IPOA’s role is dependent on other institutions to oversee the police service.

ALSO READ: Four dead, seven hospitalized after allegedly consuming ‘Kaluvu’ traditional brew in Mwingi

IPOA depends on the DPP

On Power and Politics with George Maringa, Waiganjo highlighted that IPOA is always at the mercy of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP).

Commissioner Waiganjo shared that once IPOA hands over its investigation findings to the ODPP, it has no bearing on how fast or slow the legal process can be.

ALSO READ: Kiambu: Health Ministry issues warning over toxic spill in Rironi

Asked further on just how long an investigation can take. Waiganjo stated that an investigation can be concluded within a month and the case presented to the courts.

Consequently, he was quick to highlight that, it would only apply in normal situations and elaborated that the current situation is not normal.

ALSO READ: Tanzania’s President shakes up cabinet ahead of 2025 elections

IPOA ON Gen Z protest situation

Recent events during public protests against the government have led most Kenyans to question the effectiveness of IPOA.

Police officers have been documented online applying excessive force on nonviolent protestors with the use of live bullets during protests.

Commissioner Waiganjo stated that IPOA has already submitted 8 files to the ODPP in connection with police brutality during the ongoing protest.

He added that IPOA is looking into the murders of 42 people carried out in due course of the ongoing anti-government protests.

ALSO READ: Raila Odinga refutes bribery accusations; supports Gen-Z demos

Police Abductions

On attending protests, “A Policeman or woman has to be in uniform, they have to display their badge number and their names” Waiganjo stated.

He called out the abductions dubbed as arrests going on stating “They have to inform the person they are arresting, why they are arresting them?”

ALSO READ: Ugandan President Museveni to protest organizers: ‘Playing with fire’

The IPOA commissioner continued on the unlawful arrest, stating police must inform a person “What offense they have committed and take the person to lawful custody, not the abductions we are seeing.”

Ultimately, Waiganjo stated that, while the responsibility of oversight of the police service is mandated under IPOA, its execution is dependent on other institutions.

ALSO READ: William Ruto condemns Gen Z for avoiding talks to end Anti-govt protests: “Enough is enough”