Legislators have rallied behind the National Police Service Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which seeks to improve the mental wellness of police officers through the establishment of psychosocial support centers. 

The Bill, sponsored by Hon. Peter Masara, acknowledges the immense psychological toll of policing, where officers constantly face danger and trauma. It mandates the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) to prioritize mental health support, structured counseling, and wellness programs.  

The Bill seeks to amend the National Police Service Commission Act to introduce measures such as the establishment of psychosocial support centers for police officers. The proposed legislation recognizes the unique challenges of policing, where officers operate in high-stress environments, alternating between law enforcement and public service while facing life-threatening situations. 

The mover, Hon. Peter Masara calls on the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) should take proactive steps to enhance the mental wellness of officers through structured counseling, psychological support, and wellness programs. 

"Numerous studies, including the recent Mental Health Taskforce Report of 2020 have examined the Germane aspect of mental health, but have overlooked the mental health of police officers. The proposed Bill therefore gives the National Police Service Commission various mandates aimed at promotion of the mental health of police officers,'"  said Hon. Peter Masara. 

During the second reading of the Bill, lawmakers lauded the proposal, terming it progressive and necessary to address the challenges officers face while executing their duties.  

“As legislators and leaders in this country, I think if there's a profession that we have given a raw deal in this land, it's for our men and women in blue – police officers. This amendment is progressive; it is also forward-looking," said Vice Chairperson, Committee on Administration and Internal Affairs, Hon. Dido Rasso. 

Hon. Rasso further highlighted three key areas that the Bill addresses: “First, it's about accountability across the police force. Secondly, it addresses the role of leadership—both those who command police officers and also we as leaders in this country. What is our responsibility in ensuring a well-functioning police service?” 

Hon. Rachel Nyamai pointed out the harrowing experiences police officers endure in their line of duty, saying, “When these police officers are exposed to all these traumatic circumstances including collection of bodies all over the country, dealing with decomposed bodies. I think we need to make sure that we pass this Bill to ensure that we provide the funding that is needed.” 

She also stressed the importance of adequate funding, stating, “We have a very good Police Service Commission, we have very good officers but what can they do without proper funding?” 

Clause 5 of the National Police Service Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2024, requires the Commission to collaborate with the Ministry of Health to provide mental health services tailored to the unique needs of police officers. 

Hon. Cathrine Wambilianga echoed similar sentiments, pointing out the need for counseling services for officers who face traumatizing situations on duty. “Our police officers have gone through very difficult situations when, for example, there's an accident on the road, they are the ones we call to remove the bodies. When there's drowning, we call them to remove the bodies for us. But at the end of the day, nobody seeks to sit down and counsel them.” 

She further added, “They get back to their homes with their normal problems, which even emanate from the poor salaries that they get. So, you find with such situations, a police officer goes home stressed, meets their family, and whenever there's an issue in that family, they sometimes resort to suicide.” 

On his part, Hon. Adan Keynan reiterated the importance of prioritizing the mental well-being of police officers. “One of the key provisions in the Bill is the issue of mental health and the well-being of a police officer. Recognizing the psychological toll on a police officer, this Bill mandates the NPS to prioritize the mental health and well-being of police officers by implementing structured counseling, psychological support, and wellness programs.” 

Hon. Keynan also warned about the dangers of neglecting the police service. “It is true that our police officers have been neglected over the years; they provide a pivotal service to members of the public. Generally, it is said that a country without a professionally trained, adequately funded police service is a country that does not have peace and tranquility.” 

Hon. James Nyikal noted that mental health concerns within the police force are a recognized issue. “The issue of mental health amongst security officers, particularly police officers, is now an acknowledged fact that there is a problem, and this fact has been borne out by what we experience very often.” 

Hon. Beatrice Elachi called for fair treatment of police officers, stating, “It's very sad, the way sometimes we treat our police. Yes, I know, individually, you will find some with a lot of challenges in terms of how they deal with issues. That does not mean we look at the sector and demonize it until we wonder whether these are our brothers and sisters.” 

If approved the National Treasury will be mandated to allocate specific funding for mental health initiatives within the police service.