Functions of the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) in Kenya

The National Police Service Commission (NPSC) is an independent commission established under Chapter Fifteen of the Constitution of Kenya (2010). Its primary role is to oversee the human resource functions of the National Police Service (NPS), which comprises:

1. The Kenya Police Service (KPS)
2. The Administration Police Service (APS)
3. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI)

The Commission took over police human resource management from the Public Service Commission (PSC).

1. Composition of the National Police Service Commission

According to Article 246 of the Constitution, the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) consists of:

1. A person qualified to be a High Court Judge, appointed by the President.
2. Two retired senior police officers, appointed by the President.
3. Three distinguished persons of integrity, appointed by the President.
4. The Inspector-General (IG) of the National Police Service (Ex-officio member).
5. The two Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) (Ex-officio members).

2. Functions of the National Police Service Commission

(A) Constitutional Functions (Article 246)

The National Police Service Commission (NPSC) is responsible for:

1. Recruiting and appointing persons to hold or act in offices within the National Police Service (NPS).
2. Confirming appointments, promotions, and transfers within the NPS.
3. Exercising disciplinary control over police officers, including suspensions and dismissals.
4. Ensuring due process in disciplinary actions within the NPS.
5. Performing other functions prescribed by national legislation.

(B) Additional Functions under the National Police Service Commission Act

Section 10 of the National Police Service Commission Act expands the Commission’s role:

1. Developing and reviewing human resource policies for the police.
2. Determining police salaries and benefits (with advice from the Salaries and Remuneration Commission).
3. Approving secondary employment and business engagements for police officers.
4. Collaborating with other state agencies, commissions, and departments.
5. Setting terms and conditions of service for police officers.
6. Developing fair and transparent disciplinary procedures (as per Article 47 of the Constitution).
7. Investigating and summoning witnesses for internal police inquiries.
8. Ensuring compliance with due process in disciplinary cases.
9. Reviewing disciplinary actions taken by the Inspector-General (IG).
10. Handling appeals from police officers regarding disciplinary actions, transfers, and promotions.
11. Overseeing and approving police training programs.
12. Investigating and evaluating police personnel practices.
13. Receiving and referring civilian complaints to agencies like:

• Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA)
• Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR)
• Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP)
• Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC)

14. Recommending improvements in police conditions of service, code of conduct, and qualifications.
15. Reporting to the President and National Assembly on police compliance with constitutional values.
16. Receiving input from registered police associations.

3. Powers of the National Police Service Commission

The NPSC has extensive powers to execute its functions effectively. These include:

1. Gathering information and compelling individuals to provide evidence.
2. Conducting interviews for police positions while ensuring regional, gender, and ethnic balance.
3. Managing and protecting the Commission’s assets.
4. Holding disciplinary hearings for police officers.
5. Overseeing the implementation of police policies and procedures.
6. Conducting investigations on police misconduct.
7. Making recommendations to the government regarding the police force.
8. Conducting public inquiries and publishing reports on police matters.
9. Issuing summons to witnesses.
10. Taking legal disciplinary action against officers under its control.

In carrying out its duties, the Commission:

• Can gather information by any means necessary.
• Receives oral and written statements.
• Is not bound by strict rules of evidence.

4. Conclusion

The National Police Service Commission (NPSC) is vital for ensuring professionalism, accountability, and efficiency in the Kenyan police force. By handling recruitment, promotions, discipline, and policy development, the Commission plays a crucial role in police reform and human rights protection.

For more information, visit:
🔹 Kenya Law – National Police Service Commission Act