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To build a police service fit for the 21st century, the Executive must also prioritise training on human rights to end senseless shootings /FILE

Thousands of police officers and prison warders will feel some relief following the Executive’s decision to improve their perks.

The new terms, which take effect in July, are part of a broader review aimed at strengthening operational readiness and accountability. The review was recommended by a task force led by former Chief Justice David Maraga.

Even with the improved remuneration, the police, the Kenya Prison Service and National Youth Service still face a serious shortage of housing. The gap continues to erode the dignity of the men and women charged with maintaining law and order.

The move to improve officers’ welfare is a positive gesture. It should boost morale and sharpen the zeal with which they pursue criminals and patrol streets in both urban centres and remote outposts.

Ultimately, the reforms will only be meaningful when citizens can walk without fear of muggings or criminal attacks.

Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen sparked a serious integrity debate last September when he appeared to condone the notorious practice of police officers asking the public for petrol money whenever they need to move to a crime scene.

Kenya still has a long way to go. However, the improved perks could help end the embarrassing spectacle of officers reducing themselves to laughing stock by allowing touts to slip Sh50 notes into their hands as bribes.

To build a police service fit for the 21st century, the Executive must also prioritise training on human rights to end senseless shootings, kidnappings and abductions.

“It always amuses me that the biggest praise for my work comes for the imagination, while the truth is that there's not a single line in all my work that does not have a basis in reality.”

 

Gabriel José García Márquez 

The Colombian writer and journalist considered one of the significant authors of the 21st century was born on March 6, 1927