Security Committee Inspects IPOA Facility, Pledges Support Amid Funding Gaps

 

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has appealed to the National Assembly’s Administration and Internal Security Committee to increase its budget allocation by KES 384 million for the 2025/26 financial year to sustain and strengthen its core oversight operations.

The appeal was made during an inspection tour of the Authority’s Upper Hill facilities by the Committee, led by Vice Chairperson Hon. (Rtd.) Col. Dido Rasso. The lawmakers assessed IPOA’s forensic laboratory, call centre, and ICT data centre as part of efforts to understand the Authority’s operational capacity and budgetary needs.

IPOA Chairperson Mr. Isaack Hassan told the Committee that the Authority requires KES 2.18 billion to execute its mandate in the coming financial year, against a proposed allocation of KES 1.432 billion, leaving a shortfall of KES 748 million. He warned that the deficit threatens to slow down key accountability processes in the policing sector.

According to Mr. Hassan, IPOA’s planned outputs for the year include investigating 2,290 cases—both backlog and new—supporting 306 court cases, processing 4,000 complaints, conducting 1,280 inspections, monitoring 135 policing operations, and convening nine stakeholder engagement forums. The Authority also plans to develop a civilian oversight module and harmonise its legal mandates.

“Without the additional funding, the Authority’s operations will be delayed, undermining accountability and service delivery,” Mr. Hassan cautioned.

Committee members also sought clarity on the sustainability and security of the software systems used by the Authority. In response, Mr. Hassan highlighted ICT as one of the most underfunded areas, noting critical needs such as maintenance of ECM and ERP systems, acquisition of specialised security equipment, and renewal of software licences. He estimated that KES 31 million is required for ICT modernisation and digital transformation alone.

After touring the facilities, the Committee pledged continued support to IPOA, acknowledging its role in enhancing police accountability and public trust.