A small number of youth showed up yesterday for the national police reservists registration, with many lacking interest and others rejected for various reasons. This situation was observed across multiple counties, attributed by officials to lack of information and strict requirements. Inspector General Douglas Kanja expressed hope to meet the target of hiring 10,000 officers.
The registration exercise for police reservists took place yesterday nationwide, but a small number of youth turned up, with many showing no interest in becoming security officers. Some were turned away due to a directive that only those with a D+ grade were eligible.
In Narok, many centers saw officers waiting for hours due to low turnout, a situation echoed in Bomet. NYS officer Victor Kipkirui was excluded for lacking an original secondary school certificate. In Nyandarua, the few who appeared complained about short notice and limited slots, though County Police Commander Stella Cherono said it proceeded well.
Nakuru saw over 200 youth arrive early at Kapkures grounds, including Evans Sibuko who could not continue university education after his father's death. In Laikipia, Chief Officer Monica Berege attributed the low turnout to lack of information, with many rejected for failing height and weight standards.
Murang’a had under 200 youth, with only 60 meeting requirements, according to Geoffrey Ruheni. Garissa's low numbers were linked to poor communication, though Commander Amos Ambasa insisted it was adequate. In Turkana, Veronica Ekoi was rejected for a D plain in English and Swahili, and Chairman Peter Wahome called the process fair.
Trans Nzoia, Homa Bay, Kisii, Siaya, and Kisumu reported various complaints about limited slots and rejection reasons. In Kisumu, only 19 out of 105 were expected to qualify. Inspector General Douglas Kanja, who visited Narok and Machakos, stated the exercise is crucial ahead of the 2027 elections following a three-year hiring freeze.