Kenyan police recruitment begins smoothly as thousands turn out nationwide

The drive, aimed at bolstering the National Police Service (NPS) after a three-year recruitment hiatus, attracted significant interest—although a number of candidates were turned away for failing to meet basic requirements.

Applicants were subjected to rigorous physical and academic vetting, including a minimum KCSE grade of D+ and height requirements.

The physical assessment—complete with track runs and height measurements—proved challenging for some, prompting emotional scenes as candidates were eliminated for falling short of academic qualifications or exceeding the 28-year age limit.

Several rejected candidates expressed frustration, accusing recruiters of unfair treatment.
In Baringo, Idris Kiprop lamented being turned away due to his height, saying he had seen officers of similar stature already serving in the force.

In Bomet, Victor Kipkirui questioned why he was dismissed despite meeting the stated academic qualifications.

Others, like Kericho resident Raymond Rotich, argued that the limited number of available slots disadvantaged many qualified youths.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, who assessed the exercise in Machakos and Narok counties, reported that the process had been largely incident-free. He affirmed that successful candidates will proceed to training as the service seeks to reinforce its operational strength.

“They are not only coming in as new recruits—we are also bringing in reform-minded officers who will advance the service’s reform agenda,” Kanja said.

Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat emphasized that the recruitment was free and fair, warning the public against paying bribes. “No one should be asked for any money. So far, we have not received any reports of malpractice,” he noted.