Opposition raises alarm over alleged Ksh3 billion tender for new police uniforms

Opposition leaders have questioned the procurement process for the newly unveiled police uniforms, demanding details about the company awarded the contract and the selection process used. 

Democratic Action Party (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa claimed the uniform procurement involved a contract worth nearly Ksh3 billion and called for transparency over how the deal was made.

The demand was issued during a grassroots public engagement tour in Emali Township, Makueni County, on Friday, August 28, hosted by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka. 

“Today, we are demanding to know the company that made the uniform and how, and to whom, the tender was awarded,” Wamalwa stated.

He also raised concerns over whether changing the police uniform should be a priority when officers continue to face other challenges affecting their welfare. 

“Just as Kalonzo has said, there is a contract of almost Ksh3 billion to make new uniforms for the police service. That money will not help our police officers. If you ask any officer today, is their problem the uniform or housing? Is it the uniform, or is it the housing levy and Social Health Authority (SHA) deductions? Currently, police officers, just like other Kenyans, have strained payslips. Changing their uniform does not change their lives,” he added.

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Wamalwa’s remarks came shortly after President William Ruto officially inspected and unveiled the new police uniform during the passing-out parade of recruits at the National Police College in Kiganjo, Nyeri County.

The government had announced the replacement earlier in the week, prompting public debate over the cost and necessity of changing the attire. 

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen defended the decision during the ceremony, saying the new uniform followed recommendations by the National Taskforce on Police Reforms. 

Murkomen cautioned against reducing broader police reforms to the uniform, saying the changes recommended for the National Police Service (NPS) went beyond its appearance.

“The taskforce established by the President recommended that the national police uniform needs to be changed. And the uniform unveiled today is as a result of rigorous public participation, and the police officers themselves chose it. I have seen some people equate the national police reforms to only the uniform. National police reforms cannot even be covered in one hour if I wanted to speak about them today,” the CS said.

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