Government Spokesperson Charles Owino addresses the media on September 7, 2026.
Owino says the uniform change affects general-duty Kenya Police officers, while welfare, accountability and oversight remain central to broader reforms.
Government Spokesperson Charles Owino has defended the new uniform for general-duty Kenya Police officers, describing it as one element of a broader police reform programme.
Owino responded to criticism that the government had focused on appearance while deeper issues within the police service remained unresolved.
He argued that the public should judge reforms by improvements in policing, accountability and community relations rather than by the colour of officers’ uniforms.
According to Owino, police reforms involve several parallel processes. These include policy development, legislation, training and administrative changes.
He noted that many of these reforms receive less public attention than visible changes such as uniforms.
Uniform change limited to general-duty officers
Owino clarified that the new uniform only affects general-duty Kenya Police officers.
The change covers officers commonly deployed to police stations and patrol duties.
He said the Administration Police Service and the General Service Unit will continue using their current uniforms.
According to Owino, officials introduced the new attire after reviewing concerns about appearance, practicality and working conditions.
He explained that the previous blue uniform stained easily, faded over time and often lost its intended appearance.
Owino acknowledged that members of the public have a right to question government priorities.
However, he argued that a visible change does not mean other reforms have stopped.
He added that uniforms can improve identification and functionality, but they cannot transform an institution on their own.
Welfare needs extend beyond clothing
Owino said welfare issues must remain at the centre of police reforms.
He identified housing, healthcare, salaries, training and working conditions as key priorities.
He noted that police officers often work in difficult and high-risk environments.
Owino pointed to ongoing efforts to improve housing and remuneration.
He added that discussions on other welfare concerns continue within government.
However, he said progress depends on available resources, policy decisions and implementation timelines.
On maternity uniforms, Owino said pregnant officers require clothing that supports comfort and mobility while on duty.
He encouraged officers to provide feedback on any practical challenges with the designs.
He also stressed that maternity wear should form part of a wider support system for female officers.
According to Owino, leave arrangements, healthcare services and suitable workplace facilities remain equally important.
Removing pockets cannot end bribery
Owino dismissed claims that removing pockets from traffic police uniforms would eliminate corruption.
Drawing from his experience as a criminal investigator, he said individuals determined to hide money would simply find alternative methods.
He argued that stronger systems and effective oversight offer a more practical solution.
According to Owino, authorities must strengthen supervision and improve transparency in police operations.
He also highlighted the role of body-worn cameras and surveillance technology in documenting interactions between officers and the public.
Officers found engaging in corruption should face disciplinary action or prosecution, he said.
He added that corruption should not be viewed as a problem affecting only the police service.
Maraga proposals require implementation steps
Owino also addressed concerns about delays in implementing recommendations from the Maraga Task Force.
He said the report did not automatically turn its proposals into law or policy.
Government agencies must first review the recommendations and develop implementation frameworks.
Where necessary, authorities must also take proposals through the legislative process.
According to Owino, the Interior Ministry has already established a steering committee to guide implementation.
He said officials are processing several measures, including proposals on public order management and strengthening the oversight role of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority.
Owino described police reform as a long-term process rather than a single event.
He noted that officers have previously pushed for reforms such as a police service commission, stronger civilian oversight and closer institutional integration.
He concluded that laws and oversight structures alone cannot deliver meaningful change.
Training, supervision, adequate resources and consistent accountability remain essential.
He also maintained that officers who break the law must answer for their actions, while individual misconduct should not define the entire police service.
