The Constitutional Implementation and Oversight Committee (CIOC), led Chairperson, Hon. Gathoni Wamuchomba, convened a meeting with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to address issues of police accountability and oversight.

 During the meeting, IPOA Chairperson, Ms. Anne Makori, took Members through a presentation on overview of the organization's status, achievements, and challenges.

 After her presentation, Members raised a number of issues including the lack of cooperation from the Inspector General (IG) of Police, Mr. Japhet Koome, and his deputies.

 Members noted that the IG and his team had on several occasions failed to appear before both the Committee and IPOA, raising questions about the effectiveness of the oversight role.

 Roysambu MP, Hon. Augustine Mwafrika questioned the police guidelines on the use of force during demonstrations.

 In response, IPOA CEO Mr. Elema Halake clarified that IPOA has recommended the use of rubber bullets and not live bullets, during demonstrations. He also noted that IPOA had successfully convicted 27 police officers for using unnecessary force against civilians.

 Additionally, Hon. Wamuchomba raised concerns about the integrity of data protection within the National Police Service. She highlighted instances where online lenders were granted access to personal data and the payroll, leading to over 6,800 police officers being burdened with loans, some tragically resulting in suicide.

 "There have been data breaches and financial fraud involving Hela Capital and Progressive Companies. Why is this happening?" she asked.

 IPOA assured the Committee that they would investigate these breaches and report their findings in due course.

Borabu MP, Hon. Patrick Osero questioned the effectiveness of IPOA when the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) forwards cases without sufficient evidence.

 Kajiado West MP, Hon. George Sunkuiya raised concerns about internal police dynamics, noting that some senior police officers intimidate their officers. He wanted to know how officers are protected by IPOA.

 Responding to these concerns, IPOA representatives clarified that while they are responsible for investigating misconduct, the welfare of police officers falls under the mandate of the National Police Service Commission (NPSC).