Kathiani Member of Parliament, Robert Mbui, has advocated for the implementation of wearable cameras, commonly known as body cameras, within the ranks of traffic police in an effort to tackle corruption.
In response to a recent report by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) highlighting the prevalence of bribery within public institutions, particularly among traffic and regular police, Mbui has emphasized the need for technological intervention to address the issue.
Mbui asserts, “We need to introduce technology to mitigate this issue of corruption.”
He suggests that body cameras could provide a means of monitoring police activities on Kenyan roads effectively.
During an appearance on Citizen TV’s Daybreak program, he explained, “Cameras can pick who is speeding or passing on the wrong side of the road, no matter who it is.
You will then just be sent a bill to pay.”
Body cameras, widely utilized by law enforcement agencies in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, are typically worn on the torso of an officer’s uniform and record events from the officer’s perspective.
Officers activate these cameras at the start of their shifts, capturing footage throughout their workday.
While advocating for the adoption of body cameras, Mbui also acknowledges the need for improved remuneration for police officers to alleviate financial pressures that may contribute to corrupt practices.
He suggests, “We may need to figure out how to pay civil servants better,” citing excessive taxes and reduced take-home pay as factors influencing officers’ susceptibility to bribery.
The EACC report highlighted instances where bribery is most prevalent, including during the procurement of police security services, the process of securing bail for an arrested individual, and when reporting crimes or providing statements.
Additionally, bribery is common in various government services such as undergoing a driving test, business registration, and applying for a Teachers Service Commission (TSC) number.
Notably, the proposal to implement body cameras is not a new concept in Kenya.
In June 2022, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Commissioner General Githii Mburu announced plans for the adoption of such devices to combat tax evasion and bribery within the agency.
Despite these intentions, the measure has yet to be implemented by the tax authority.
