Report backs local push on police checks

A coalition of grassroots activists, oversight agencies and law enforcement officials has validated a groundbreaking report on strengthening police accountability through community-led action. 

The meeting, convened by the Social Justice Centres movement at the Ghetto Foundation, endorsed the report developed with International Justice Mission (IJM) Kenya, which details the critical role of local justice centres in documenting abuses and securing redress.

The report, titled 'The role of social justice centres in enhancing police accountability in Kenya', is based on research by the firm Infotrak.

It presents the centres as indispensable frontline actors in bridging the gap between marginalised communities and state institutions.

The validation forum saw robust participation from diverse stakeholders, including the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, the National Police Service, clergy and government officials.

A central outcome was the collective affirmation of the centres’ model for fostering tangible accountability.

Participants agreed the report provides a practical roadmap for formalising and scaling up the centres’ work in documenting cases, supporting victims and facilitating dialogue.

“This report legitimises our daily struggle,” Ghetto Foundation representative Annette Wanjiku said.

“It moves our documentation from community rumours to credible evidence that oversight bodies can act upon. It proves that when we organise, we don’t just complain—we generate solutions.”

The meeting also solidified a commitment to deeper collaboration.

Representatives from the National Police Service engaged in discussions on improving community policing relations, acknowledging the centres as potential partners.

“The conversation has shifted from mutual suspicion to recognising a shared goal of justice and security,” IJM Kenya official noted.

“These centres are not adversaries; they are a vital early warning system and a bridge to communities often beyond our reach.”