On Friday, Issack Hassan, the recent nominee for the Chairperson position at the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), disclosed his financial standing during a vetting session in Parliament. He stated his net worth to be approximately Ksh. 100 million.
Presenting his case before the Parliamentary Committee on Administration and Internal Security, Hassan shared insights into his assets, which include a range of rental apartments, multiple vehicles, a personal residence, and several entrepreneurial ventures.
During his testimony, Hassan made it clear that the Ksh. 100 million estimate was not based on a detailed valuation but rather a rough calculation of his holdings.
“I own an apartment in Kileleshwa, as well as vehicles and properties in Garissa. This figure is around Ksh. 100 million, derived from estimations rather than a formal assessment,”
Hassan’s vision for IPOA, should he receive approval, includes a commitment to engaging with the community to restore faith in the police service. His pledge comes in response to harsh criticism aimed at the police for their aggressive tactics during the Gen Z protests that took place in mid-2024.
It is crucial to foster meaningful dialogue with the public. While drawing clear boundaries can be difficult, instances of excessive force by officers are evident,”
Issues from Hassan’s past role as chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) between 2011 and 2016 were also raised during the hearing, with legislators questioning his capacity to successfully lead IPOA.
Citing his experiences in Somalia, where he witnessed the devastating impact of civil unrest, he stated,
My time there made me acutely aware of what civil war can inflict on a nation. It results in devastation and the complete breakdown of law and order. In 2007, we teetered on the edge of civil conflict ourselves; we must never allow that to happen again—this can only be achieved by upholding the rule of law.”
President William Ruto nominated Hassan for the IPOA chair position, successfully surpassing eight other candidates who had been considered for this critical role. As the vetting process continues, the attention on Hassan’s wealth, previous experiences, and proposed initiatives illustrates the importance of transparency and accountability within Kenya’s policing framework.
Stay tuned for updates on this significant appointment and its implications for the future of policing in Kenya.
