TRANS NZOIA, Kenya – Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over what he described as personal attacks on political leaders and their families, as he accused opposition groups of lacking a clear agenda for governing Kenya.
Murkomen said political competition should focus on policies and programmes rather than personal attacks, while accusing the United Opposition and Linda Mwananchi faction of failing to present an alternative programme for the country.
“They don’t have an agenda. They are waiting for their boss, who went into retirement, to plan for them,” Murkomen said.
The CS was speaking during an interdenominational church service at Twiga Primary School in Cherangany, Trans Nzoia County.
Murkomen accuses opposition of backing political goons
Murkomen also turned his attention to the recent incidents of political violence, accusing sections of the opposition of sponsoring or shielding individuals involved in attacks during political rallies.
He said the government would continue taking measures to maintain security as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“When goons are arrested, the opposition should stop the business of running to court to defend them,” Murkomen said.
He further called on the Judiciary to deal firmly with suspects facing charges arising from politically motivated violence.
“We ask the Judiciary to take stern action against those who will be arraigned in court over goonism,” he added.
His remarks come amid growing concern over violence and disruption at political gatherings in several parts of the country, including recent incidents in Homa Bay, Nyandarua and Nakuru.
Murkomen condemns attacks on journalists
The Interior CS also condemned the recent attack on journalists during a Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay.
He said journalists should be allowed to perform their duties without intimidation and urged the media to maintain objectivity when reporting political violence.
“To our journalists, stop taking sides in the war against goons,” Murkomen said.
His comments come at a time when the role of the media in covering increasingly heated political campaigns has come under scrutiny, with political actors from different camps accusing sections of the media of favouring their opponents.
Murkomen maintained that the fight against political violence should be approached collectively, regardless of political affiliation.
Sing’Oei calls for issue-based politics
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei, who accompanied Murkomen to the church service, urged politicians to embrace issue-based politics and respect differing opinions.
Sing’Oei said political leaders should focus on presenting solutions to the challenges facing Kenyans instead of engaging in confrontational politics.
He also highlighted the role of religious institutions in promoting social cohesion and shaping communities.
The PS has continued to engage with communities and institutions in Trans Nzoia while advancing Kenya’s diplomatic interests.
Ruto allies back President’s re-election bid
Other leaders who attended the service included Senator Jackson Mandago and MPs Nelson Koech, Lilian Siyoi and Julius Rutto.
The leaders praised President William Ruto’s administration and expressed confidence that he would secure a second term in the 2027 General Election.
Their remarks come as political parties and emerging formations intensify grassroots mobilisation across the country ahead of the polls.
