NAIROBI, Kenya – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has reassured Kenyans that the government will take firm action against police officers who abuse their authority, even as he urged citizens to respect the role of law enforcement in maintaining public order.
Murkomen made the remarks on Friday during the destruction of illicit firearms at the National Police Leadership Academy in Ngong, Kajiado County, in an event presided over by President William Ruto.
His comments come amid public outrage over the killing of 31-year-old teacher Albert Ojwang, allegedly by police.
“There has been great debate in the country following incidents involving a few police officers who have erred in their work, brutalising citizens. Even if it’s 50 or 100 officers out of 120,000, they cannot be used to generalise or say that all our police officers are violating human rights. We will deal with every case individually,” said Murkomen.
He underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring accountability in the security forces, adding that no officer will be allowed to misuse their firearm or authority to harm civilians.
“Citizens must know they have our maximum support when dealing with rogue officers. In such cases, we will deal with them firmly.”
At the same time, the CS warned against disrespecting police officers or engaging in violent protests, citing a recent demonstration in Nakuru where a protester was seen brandishing a panga.
“I request the citizens to respect the authority of police. Without that respect, there is anarchy. Exercising freedoms and rights does not include looting or burning vehicles in the city,” he said.
Murkomen condemned Thursday’s protests in Nairobi—sparked by Ojwang’s death—during which property was vandalised and businesses looted.
While acknowledging citizens’ right to peaceful assembly, he said public order must be preserved.
“We will support police officers when they are enforcing law and order to ensure every citizen is protected, as well as their property. It doesn’t matter what people say—our job in the security sector is to keep the people safe.”
Murkomen concluded by stating that both police and civilians must be held accountable when they break the law.
