In a bid to restore order on Kenyan roads and combat the rising cases of corruption, Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki has issued a directive for the elimination of all roadblocks across the country by November 1, 2023.
The decision, aligned with President William Ruto's call, aims to overhaul the existing security measures and ensure a smoother flow of traffic.
During a press conference, CS Kindiki emphasized that these new directives have been put in place to address the mounting instances of corruption, which have caught the attention of the President.
Eliminating static roadblocks is a necessary step to counter evasion techniques that individuals have devised over time.
"The static roadblocks are less effective because people have found ways of circumventing them and evading police officers," the CS stated, highlighting the need for more adaptable and proactive security measures.
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The CS further clarified that moving forward, the erection of roadblocks will require explicit permission from the Nairobi police headquarters.
This change in approach will ensure that roadblocks are strategically placed based on specific security needs.
The ultimate goal is to replace the existing roadblocks with patrols and other dynamic methods that effectively address security concerns.
Kindiki also detailed the new modus operandi for road policing.
He specified that police officers would now be authorized to erect barricades solely under the approval of the Nairobi police headquarters.
The primary objective of these barricades would be clearly defined, and they would only remain in place until the predetermined purpose was achieved.
"As a policy, the government has eliminated roadblocks across the country and they are only erected on a needs basis before they are erected, permission has to be sought from the police headquarters in Nairobi from police headquarters and the purpose of the roadblock must be defined and as soon as the intended purpose is achieved, the roadblock must be dismantled," Kindiki said.
He disclosed the government's intention is to eliminate roadblocks across the country gradually and replace them with proactive patrols and other security measures.
"We are eventually going to get rid of all roadblocks of all nature by November 1, 2023. Early this month, the president directed that within 90 days we must remove all roadblocks and replace them with patrols and other ways of achieving security intentions. We will ensure that the directive by the president is implemented by November 1 across the country," the CS added.
Furthermore, CS Kindiki urged police officers to treat all motorists with respect and firmly discouraged any involvement in bribery.
The emphasis on respectful behaviour underscores the commitment to fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and the public, leading to a safer and more secure environment.
The move to eliminate roadblocks across the nation signifies a proactive step towards combating corruption and enhancing road safety.
With a deadline set for November 1, 2023, Kenyans' expectations are now focused on the government executing Kindiki's order as they envision a more efficient and corruption-free road network.
This sweeping change is anticipated to significantly impact the dynamics of law enforcement, security, and traffic management in Kenya.
