Implementation Of Police Reforms And How It Affects Service Delivery In Nyeri Police Division, Nyeri County, Kenya

Abstract

The study was premised on police reforms. The police reforms initiative has been practised in many parts of the world. The aim of police reforms is to change the police organization to enhance security. The study looked into the police reforms across the world particularly in America where much was learned on measures that were taken that yielded positive results. In Africa, a case scenario of South Africa and Democratic republic of Congo was used where it was established that reforms took place amid many challenges. In Kenya, in 2009, the National Task Force on Police Reforms was appointed and recommended reforms under, Professionalism: Accountability: Operational and Administrative: Institutional policy and legislation. These reforms effort were to be ascertained whether they have been implemented and if so the effects they had on service delivery. The purpose of this study therefore was to investigate the implementation of police reforms and how it affects service delivery at Nyeri Police Division, Nyeri County in relation to implementation process, police culture and managerial structure. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. The target population was 114 respondents. The sample size was 89 respondents. Purposive sampling was used to select the senior officers and simple random sampling used to select the junior officers. The instrument used to collect data was the questionnaire. Reliability was ensured by use of split-half technique where by use of Spearman Brown Prophesy reliability coefficient, was established at 0.68. Quantitative data was analyzed using frequency counts and percentages while in qualitative data, use of content analysis to identify patterns, themes and biases was used. Results of data analysis were presented using frequency distribution tables. The study established that there was need to redefine the structure to conform to the Ransley report recommendations. The findings revealed that the managerial structure ought to be decentralized to police station and given autonomy of operation including finances. Capacity building of officers was identified to be essential in reforming the service. The study found out that refining the police culture to accommodate the members of the public will enhance the service delivery. The conclusion of the study was that decentralization of reform process and police operations should be done at police station level where there is constant involvement with the public to enhance service delivery. The study recommended the establishment of a unit that will be responsible for implementation of police reforms at station level. It also recommended the restructuring of managerial roles to conform to the functions. The final recommendation was on building the capacity of police officers to enable them embrace fully the new changes.