Mixed Reactions As Gov't Unveils New Police Uniform Designs, Asks For Feedback: "Toeni Mifuko Bana"

• National Police Service (NPS) launched a public participation exercise aimed at identifying a new set of police uniform designs
• However, the move attracted mixed reactions from Kenyans, with some wondering why the uniforms were being changed barely five years after the current ones were introduced
• Other Kenyans cheekily said the designs were okay, but there is a need to remove pockets from police uniforms

Nairobi - The move by the National Police Service (NPS) to unveil a new set of police uniform designs has generated mixed reactions from Kenyans.

NPS announces dates for public participation

On Tuesday, August 29, NPS launched a public participation exercise, asking Kenyans to view and give suggestions on the new set of uniforms that will replace the current royal blue outfit introduced by former president Uhuru Kenyatta.

"The National Police Service kindly invites members of the public to participate in the selection process for the proposed Kenya Police Service uniform," said NPS.

The public participation exercise will occur at various venues between August 29 and Thursday, August 31.

What Kenyans said about new uniforms

Kenyans have reacted differently to the new set of uniforms, with some suggesting NPS should revert back to the old navy blue uniforms.

Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai said the government should return to the old navy blue uniforms.

"Go back to the old uniform. Stop these jokes," he said.

Other Kenyans said the design was okay but expressed concerns about the uniforms having pockets.

IrenesConcierge #TuJadili:

"Return to the old classy uniform. These new designs are all ugly and tender-driven."

Kalenjins Online

"Ziko sawa, Size ya pockets tu ipunguzwe."

DHOLUO DICTIONARY:

"Why do they have big pockets, are they planning for mega collection of 50bobs?"

Douglas Orang'i:

"The old uniform was good. Seems every regime wants to mint money from supplying police uniform."

Mwalimu Eric:

"Toeni mifuko bana."

Ruto to IG Koome: Police shouldn't pay to get uniforms

Meanwhile, President William Ruto directed the Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome to ensure that they are provided with uniforms fully funded by the police service.

On Tuesday, January 10, Ruto asked Koome to ensure all newly recruited police officers are given the requisite uniform and none of them is asked to go and purchase uniforms with their own money.

"Mr IG as we expect these great officers to perform their part of the bargain, I expect that we on our part even as we wait for the recommendations of the task force, all these officers who leave here today, each officer will get the requisite uniform," Ruto said.

The head of state spoke during the pass-out parade of 2,881 police officers at the Kenya Police Training College in Kiganjo, Nyeri county.