Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has reassured Kenyans that the government is committed to protecting them from rogue police officers while maintaining support for law enforcement agencies operating within the confines of the law.
Speaking on Friday during the destruction of illicit firearms at the National Police Leadership Academy in Ngong, Kajiado County an event presided over by President William Ruto Murkomen addressed the growing public outrage following the death of 31-year-old teacher Albert Ojwang, allegedly at the hands of police officers.
Murkomen condemned the use of excessive force by some officers, stressing that those found guilty of human rights violations would be held individually accountable. “Even if it is 50 or 100 officers out of the 120,000-strong police force, we will not generalise. We will deal with each case individually,” he said.
He reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance on the misuse of firearms and state authority, assuring the public of unwavering support in seeking justice. “Citizens must know they have our maximum support in dealing with officers who misuse their authority to harm them,” he stated.
However, Murkomen also urged the public to uphold the rule of law and respect the authority of the police. Citing an incident in Nakuru where a protester brandished a panga during a demonstration, he warned against acts of lawlessness and violence. “Freedom and rights do not include violence, looting, or burning vehicles,” he noted.
The Interior CS condemned the destruction and looting that took place during Thursday’s protests in Nairobi, which were organised to demand justice for Ojwang. While supporting peaceful demonstrations, Murkomen emphasized that public safety and property must not be compromised.
He pledged continued support for officers executing their duties lawfully and firmly stated that both rogue police and violent protesters would face consequences. “We will hold police accountable and equally, civilians who misuse their freedom will also be held accountable,” he concluded.
Murkomen’s remarks aim to strike a balance between addressing police brutality concerns and reinforcing law and order in the wake of recent national unrest.
