Over 40 journalists from the Lake Region have struck a partnership deal with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to enhance transparency, accountability, and public understanding of police conduct.
The pact was formalized on Monday during a meeting in Kisumu between IPOA officials and members of the Lake Region Journalists Network (LRJN). IPOA Commissioner Kenwilliams Nyakomitah commended the journalists for their willingness to collaborate with the authority, terming the engagement as “a strong step toward justice and human rights protection.”
“This engagement meeting has been very successful. The LRJN is strong in numbers and membership. IPOA is looking forward to working collaboratively with the team to ensure justice, highlight any human rights violations, and equally recognize positive police work,” said Nyakomitah.
He noted that many police misconduct cases go unreported, often due to, lack of public awareness, a gap he said journalists could help bridge through accurate reporting and community education.
Nyakomitah further clarified that IPOA only investigates cases that fall within its legal mandate, admitting that the authority has faced challenges, particularly limited public cooperation. He, however, noted that improved coordination with the Office of the Inspector General has made their work easier.
During the meeting, IPOA also addressed concerns surrounding a suspect who was found dead at Kisumu Central Police Station. Paul Murkomen, IPOA’s regional coordinator, confirmed that the body would undergo a postmortem to determine whether the suspect, who had been charged with murder and robbery with violence, died by suicide or foul play. The body is currently preserved at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) as investigations continue.
LRJN Chairman Josphat Odhiambo welcomed the partnership, hailing IPOA for taking, time to clarify its roles and processes. He also urged the authority to prioritize the safety of journalists, especially when covering sensitive or risky assignments.
“We appreciate IPOA for engaging with us and committing to work together. We also urge them to ensure journalists’ safety and end cases of harassment in the line of duty,” said Odhiambo, calling on LRJN members to remain united and uphold the spirit of collaboration.
