NAIROBI, Kenya — Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced a significant upcoming development: the issuance of a formal policy to guide police on the use of force and firearms.
This directive, a critical measure amidst ongoing public scrutiny, is slated for publication in the Kenya Gazette this Friday, in strict adherence to Article 245(4) of the Constitution.
Speaking on Tuesday, CS Murkomen addressed the prevailing national discourse surrounding law enforcement’s use of force. “Cognisant of the ongoing debate and national concerns on the use of force by security personnel, I will issue a policy directive to the Inspector General of Police on Friday,” he stated.
The conduct of law enforcement, particularly regarding the use of firearms, has been a central point of public discussion following recent protests that escalated into violence.
Murkomen issued a stern warning that any officer found to have engaged in the unlawful use of force will face legal prosecution. He affirmed that thorough investigations will be conducted into all reported excesses, with appropriate measures taken against any individuals found culpable.
These remarks follow nationwide demonstrations on June 25 and July 7, which tragically resulted in 42 fatalities and nearly 600 injuries. The Interior CS noted that among those injured were 496 police officers.
“This is unacceptable. One life lost is one too many. We mourn every life lost and extend our deepest sympathies to the affected families,” he conveyed.
Accompanied by Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo and senior police commanders, Murkomen detailed the extent of the unrest, noting that public facilities and private businesses were attacked.
Specific targets included police stations, government offices, vehicles, and even a hospital. He characterized the destruction of 16 police stations and posts as a “disturbing trend” that directly jeopardizes public safety.
“When a police station is destroyed, it leaves communities vulnerable. It is our duty as the government to ensure that citizens remain safe and secure,” he emphasized.
In response to the unrest, police have since apprehended nearly 1,500 individuals nationwide on suspicion of involvement.
Charges range from serious offenses such as robbery with violence and arson to malicious damage to property and attacks on critical infrastructure.
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Approximately 50 individuals are currently under investigation by the Serious Crimes Investigations Unit, while 71 cases are being handled by the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit.
Murkomen also highlighted specific incidents in Nakuru, Eldoret, and Kitengela where businesses suffered looting and hospitals experienced disruptions. He expressed strong disapproval of the decision to grant bail to two suspects arrested in connection with an incident at Kitengela Sub-County Hospital, terming it “unacceptable.”
“In hospitals, we seek refuge at our most vulnerable moments. To infringe on this sanctity is a grave offence,” he stated.
Commending security agencies for their response, Murkomen credited intelligence-led operations with preventing further attacks on key infrastructure. He urged all Kenyans to pursue grievances through legal and constitutional channels, cautioning vehemently against violence.
“We cannot normalise the loss of lives and livelihoods or the threat to peace and stability,” he said.
He concluded with a direct message to instigators: “To those inciting or funding such acts, take note: this reign of terror and impunity must end.”
