The High Court has lifted a temporary order that had halted the recruitment of 10,000 new police officers, clearing the way for one of the country’s largest security intake exercises in recent years. The decision followed a plea by Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja, who warned that the freeze had left the National Police Service (NPS) critically understaffed at a time when Kenya faces rising security pressures, including terrorism threats and increased criminal activity.
The halted recruitment had stemmed from a petition challenging elements of the hiring process, prompting the court to pause the exercise pending further clarification. However, during Thursday’s proceedings, the IG argued that delays were undermining national preparedness, particularly in rural and border regions where officers are already overstretched. He told the court that the NPS has been grappling with retirements, resignations, and expanded policing mandates, stressing that the gaps could compromise public safety and ongoing national operations. The State supported his view, noting that the government had set aside funds and logistical plans for the intake months in advance.
The court’s ruling has drawn mixed reactions from governance experts and human rights groups. Some have welcomed the decision, saying it ensures continued policing capacity at a time of national vulnerability. Others caution that recruitment must remain transparent and merit-based, especially given past concerns about irregularities, bribery, and political interference within security sector appointments. Civil society activists are calling for independent monitoring of the upcoming exercise to safeguard fairness and to ensure that recruits represent Kenya’s regional and ethnic diversity.
With the freeze lifted, the NPS is expected to announce new reporting dates and reinstate the nationwide recruitment schedule. The government maintains that the intake will help strengthen community policing, bolster anti-terror operations, and support the newly deployed administrative units. Security analysts say the focus now shifts to ensuring training standards remain high despite the large numbers expected. As the process resumes, public attention will be on whether the NPS delivers a credible recruitment exercise that restores public confidence and addresses the country’s pressing security needs.