“Women Are Not Weak!” – Police Service Defends Female Officers After Controversial Remarks Spark Outrage

A big debate has started in Kenya after a senior police officer said that fewer women should be allowed to join the police. This comment, made during a public security forum, upset many Kenyans. But now, the National Police Service (NPS) has come out strongly to correct the statement and support women in the force. 

During the Jukwaa La Usalama (Security Forum) in Laikipia, a police officer from Nyahururu shocked many people. He said that only 20 percent of new police recruits should be women. He claimed that women are “too weak” for the job and said they could not handle difficult duties like protests. 

He even gave an example from the June 25 protests. “I told all the ladies to stay behind because they are weak,” the officer said. He added that some women even vomited while on duty. 

These comments caused a lot of reactions from the public and from inside the government. People were angry and disappointed. 

Soon after, the National Police Service released a statement. They said the officer’s words were his personal opinion and do not represent the views of the police leadership. 

The NPS made it clear that they fully support women in the police service. They said women have shown they can do the job well, both in Kenya and in peacekeeping missions around the world. 

The statement from the NPS read, “The officer’s remarks were personal and do not reflect the official stance of the government. Women in the Service continue to play a critical role in policing, law enforcement, and professional service delivery.” 

The Constitution of Kenya, 2010, protects gender equality. Article 27(8) of the Constitution says that no more than two-thirds of the members of a public body can be of the same gender. This means women must be included in all areas of government, including the police. 

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General Douglas Kanja were also at the same forum where the remarks were made. They quickly responded to defend women officers. 

Inspector General Kanja said that the NPS is gender-sensitive. He said that both men and women are important in keeping Kenya safe. 

Murkomen went even further. He reminded everyone that the government must include women. “You cannot say we cannot hire women,” he said. “Right now, women only make up 14 percent of the police, but we are working hard to reach the constitutional target of 30 percent.” 

Many Kenyans online praised Murkomen and Kanja for standing up for women in the service. 

The NPS promised that they will continue to follow the Constitution and treat all officers fairly. They also thanked all police officers, men and women, for working hard to protect the country. 

Women in the police force have also spoken out. Many say they work just as hard as their male colleagues and deserve equal respect. 

Activists and human rights groups have demanded an apology from the officer who made the original remarks. Some even called for disciplinary action. 

On social media, hashtags like #WomenInUniform and #SupportFemaleOfficers began trending as Kenyans showed their support for women in security roles. 

Gender equality experts said that such comments, even if personal, can cause serious harm. They said women must not be judged based on outdated beliefs. 

The Kenyan Constitution is clear: all people must be treated equally. No one should be denied a job just because of their gender. 

As this story continues to spread, it reminds everyone that respect, fairness, and the rule of law are the foundation of a strong country. 

The NPS has made its position clear: women are not a burden, they are brave, skilled, and professional officers who deserve full support. 

Let this be a lesson that words matter, especially when spoken by leaders. And let us all continue working towards a future where women and men have equal chances to serve, lead, and protect.