Former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chair Issack Hassan is currently undergoing vetting for the position of chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA). This significant step in his career follows President William Ruto’s nomination of Hassan on November 12, 2024, as part of a broader initiative to appoint new leadership within key government agencies.
Former IEBC Chairman Isaack Hassan at County Hall, Nairobi.[Boniface Okendo, Standard]
Hassan’s nomination comes with a wealth of experience in the legal field and public service. He has over 30 years of experience as a legal practitioner and consultant, having worked in various countries including Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Namibia, and Afghanistan. In his nomination announcement, President Ruto praised Hassan’s qualifications, stating, “The nominee is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya with extensive experience that makes him well-suited for this role.”
Ahmed Issack Hassan:photo courtesy
The vetting process is scheduled to take place on November 22, 2024, where Hassan will appear before the Committee on Administration and Internal Security at Parliament Buildings. The vetting session will kick off at 8:30 AM, with Hassan being the first nominee to be assessed among seven others nominated for the IPOA board. The National Assembly clerk has invited members of the public to submit any representations they may have regarding the nominees’ suitability for their respective positions.
Hassan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law from the University of Nairobi and a Postgraduate Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law. He also possesses a Diploma in Contemporary Public Administration Management from Galilee International Management Institute in Israel. His academic credentials, combined with his extensive professional background, position him as a strong candidate for leading the IPOA.
The IPOA plays a critical role in overseeing police conduct and ensuring accountability within law enforcement agencies in Kenya. Given the ongoing discussions about police reforms and accountability in the country, Hassan’s leadership could be pivotal in addressing public concerns regarding policing practices.
As he prepares for the vetting process, Hassan expressed his commitment to enhancing oversight mechanisms within the police force. “If confirmed, my priority will be to ensure that we foster trust between the police and the communities they serve,” he stated. His vision for IPOA includes strengthening community engagement and promoting transparency within police operations.
The vetting process will not only assess Hassan’s qualifications but also gauge public sentiment regarding his appointment. The National Assembly has encouraged citizens to present their views on all nominees through witness statements or affidavits contesting their suitability.
In addition to Hassan, other nominees for IPOA include Ann Wanjiku Mwangi, Micah Onyiego Nyakego, Boniface Kipkemoi Samati, Annette Mbogoh, John Muchiri Nyaga, Kenwilliams Nyakomitah, and Jackline Lukalo Mwenesi. Each nominee will undergo similar scrutiny as part of the parliamentary approval process.
This nomination comes at a time when there is heightened scrutiny on law enforcement practices in Kenya. The public is increasingly demanding accountability and reform within police services. If appointed, Hassan’s leadership will be closely monitored as he navigates these pressing issues.
Issack Hassan’s vetting for the IPOA chairperson position marks an important moment in his career and could significantly impact policing oversight in Kenya. As he prepares for this critical assessment by Parliament, both supporters and critics will be watching closely to see how he plans to address the challenges facing law enforcement in the country.
