Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) chairperson nominee Dr. Duncan Ojwang Oburu before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security on August 12, 2026. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]
Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) chairperson nominee Duncan Ojwang Oburu has pledged to defend the rights of Kenyans and maintain the independence of the police oversight body if approved for the position.
Appearing before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security on Wednesday, Dr. Ojwang said his leadership would be guided by courage, accountability and the constitutional obligation to protect citizens from abuse of power.
“I believe I am courageous. I speak truth. Trust me with that responsibility. We will speak truth to power,” he told MPs.
The nominee said IPOA must remain an independent institution capable of investigating police misconduct without interference, while maintaining constructive cooperation with the National Police Service.
He warned that cooperation should not be mistaken for subordination, particularly when IPOA is investigating allegations against police officers.
“When it comes to misconduct, reported misconduct, checking operations and investigation, IPOA’s judgment and independence in terms of its operation and judgment cannot allow it to take instruction from the IG,” he said.
Dr. Ojwang described IPOA as “the eye of Kenyans,” arguing that citizens, as the sovereign authority under the Constitution, must remain at the centre of police oversight.