JCARM Journal of Contemporary Academic Research and Methodologies JCARM 3139-7247 Ivory and Finch Publishers 10.5281/zenodo.21865924 JCARM_JUL_26_064 Original Research Article Between Reform and Reality: Challenges Facing the National Police Service in Implementing Police Restructuring in Nairobi County, Kenya. Ochieng’ Awitti Amos National Police College-Embakasi A Campus, Kenya amosawitti1977@gmail.com 10 08 2026 1 6

Globally, police organizations are facing multiple challenges linked to their complex operating environment. Anchoring on this, police organizations are reviewing their organizational structures and re-engineering them to meet the needs of their customers. This study sought to evaluate the efficacy of police restructuring on the delivery of policing services in Nairobi City County. More specifically, the study sought to determine the challenges facing NPS in the implementation of police restructuring in Nairobi County. The New Public Management theory underpins the study. It carried out an empirical literature review using books, journal articles, periodicals, conference papers, government publications, and publications of renowned intergovernmental bodies. With a target population drawn from the National Crime Research Centre, Independent Policing Oversight Authority, Civil Rights Bodies, particularly Katiba Institute and Independent Medico- Legal Unit, National Government Administrative Officers and police officers drawn from the constitutive services and a directorate of the National Police Service, the study drew a sample of 109 participants. Additionally, the study adopted a descriptive survey design. Primary data was collected using questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Secondary data was acquired from books, journal publications, and government publications. The primary data collected was cleaned, edited, coded, and analyzed using SPSS version 9 and NVIVO software for qualitative data analysis. The results of data analysis were presented in the form of frequency tables, graphs, and charts. The study’s findings revealed that politicization, corruption, inadequate funding, and poor implementation frameworks were among the main challenges to the restructuring process. The study recommended ongoing officer sensitization, fortifying legal and policy frameworks, and depoliticizing future processes. The study recommends that the government establish ongoing sensitization programs for the purpose of creating awareness on restructuring objectives and expected outcomes.

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