Atwoli: Police should not be friendly with members of the public
By Paulette Mboga, October 12, 2025Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli has said that police officers should remain firm and disciplined in their work instead of trying to be too friendly with the public.
Speaking during a public address on Saturday, October 11, 2025, Atwoli stressed that strict policing is the only way to maintain order and curb rising crime in the country.
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Atwoli said police officers are the ones entrusted with protecting the nation and must be allowed to do their work without interference.
“Hawa ndio wanaangalia nchi. Polisi lazima awe polisi. Polisi akiwa rafiki ya mwananchi, mambo mabaya hayatakomeshwa,” he said. The trade unionist added that officers should not fear enforcing the law, as being too lenient could encourage criminals to act with impunity.
He went on to urge the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to allow police officers room to operate without unnecessary pressure.
“Hata mimi naomba IPOA. IPOA lazima ipoe kwa polisi,” Atwoli said. He noted that the watchdog body should support rather than frustrate officers as they perform their duties, especially in areas with increasing insecurity.
Firm policing approach
Atwoli insisted that discipline among citizens can only be achieved through the strict enforcement of the law. He said that the nature of African society requires firm leadership and strong law enforcement to maintain peace.
“Mwafrika, mtu wa ngozi nyeusi, usipomnyorosha utampata kwa bedroom yako,” he stated, implying that laxity leads to disorder.
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He said that the police play an important role in keeping leaders and citizens safe, noting that their authority should be respected. Using himself as an example, Atwoli said he depends on security officers even during his private engagements.
“Mimi nimetembea na bibi yangu; nataka mumuone. Nisipokuwa na polisi mnaweza kuninyang’anya haraka sana,” he said.
Atwoli introduced his wife during the event, describing her as someone who understands his schedule and ensures his safety. “Huyo ndio bibi yangu, huyo ndio anajua ni dawa gani, na schedule yangu ya safari ni lini na wapi,” he added, drawing laughter from the crowd.
The COTU boss has often been vocal about issues of discipline and national order, and his latest remarks once again underline his belief that a strong police force is necessary for a stable and secure nation.