President Ruto Nominates Scholar Amani Komora as Chairperson of Police Commission

Nairobi, Kenya – August 6, 2025

President William Ruto has nominated respected academic and public sector reformer Dr. Amani Komora as the next Chairperson of the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) — a move widely seen as part of the administration’s efforts to restore professionalism and public confidence in Kenya’s police oversight architecture.

The nomination was transmitted to the National Assembly on Tuesday for vetting, in accordance with Article 246 of the Constitution and the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act. If approved, Dr. Komora will succeed Eliud Kinuthia, whose term ended in June after serving a full six-year term.

Who is Dr. Amani Komora?

Dr. Komora is a seasoned academic with over 25 years of experience in criminal justice reform, governance, and security policy. He previously served as a senior advisor to the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and taught criminology at the University of Nairobi.

He is best known for leading a taskforce in 2020 that recommended sweeping reforms in police recruitment, training, and community engagement — many of which were adopted by the Interior Ministry.

“He brings an unmatched blend of intellectual rigor and practical reform experience to one of the country’s most powerful civilian oversight roles,” said a security analyst at the International Crisis Group.

A Mandate at a Critical Moment

The nomination comes at a time when Kenya’s police service is under renewed scrutiny over its handling of anti-tax protests, alleged extrajudicial killings, and persistent concerns about corruption and lack of accountability within the force.

The NPSC is mandated to recruit, vet, and discipline police officers, as well as to advise the President on top police appointments. It also plays a critical role in streamlining welfare issues, promotions, and transfers within both the Kenya Police and Administration Police services.

If confirmed, Dr. Komora will be expected to spearhead reforms that balance national security demands with civil liberties, while also mending trust between the public and the police.

Legislative Approval Process Ahead

The National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security is expected to schedule public hearings and vetting sessions later this month. Parliamentary sources indicate that Komora enjoys cross-party support, though some lawmakers have urged caution and thorough scrutiny, especially regarding his past policy stances on police demilitarization and budget transparency.

If approved, Komora’s term will begin in September 2025 and run for six non-renewable years, as per constitutional provisions.