By Mandere Onyinkwa
The Chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), Ahmed Issack Hassan, has resigned following his recent appointment as a judge.
In a statement released Tuesday, the Authority confirmed that Hassan had formally stepped down from his role at the civilian police oversight body.
“The Board wishes to inform the public that its Chairperson, Hon. Justice Ahmed Issack Hassan, SC, CBS, has tendered his resignation from the Authority,” the statement read.
Hassan’s exit comes shortly after his appointment to the bench, marking the end of his tenure at IPOA where he oversaw key oversight and accountability processes within policing.
Following his resignation, IPOA Vice Chairperson Anne Wanjiku Mwangi will take over leadership of the board in an acting capacity as the process of recruiting a substantive chairperson begins.
“Following this development, the Vice Chairperson, Ms. Anne Wanjiku Mwangi, will henceforth preside over the Board of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority as the process of filling the position of Chairperson commences,” the statement said.
The Authority moved to reassure the public and stakeholders that its constitutional and statutory functions will continue without disruption despite the leadership transition.
“The Authority reaffirms its commitment to service delivery in accordance with its statutory mandate, notwithstanding these developments,” the statement added.
IPOA is established under Cap. 86 of the Laws of Kenya to provide civilian oversight over the work of the National Police Service. Its mandate includes investigating deaths and serious injuries arising from police action, monitoring police conduct, and recommending prosecutions where appropriate.
Hassan’s resignation paves the way for him to assume his new judicial duties, as the Authority begins the process of appointing his successor in line with legal provisions.
The statement was dated February 17, 2026, and signed in Nairobi by Mwangi in her capacity as Vice Chairperson.