Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has come out strongly against ongoing calls for demonstrations by Gen Z and opposition groups, arguing that Kenya is too lenient on protesters compared to countries like the United States and the United Kingdom.
Speaking during a breakfast meeting with FKF Premier League champions Kenya Police FC at State House, Murkomen questioned the motives behind the planned protests, particularly those scheduled for June 25 in memory of youths killed during demonstrations last year.
“You hear people talking about mandamano, and you wonder—what exactly is the reason?” he asked. “It’s as if they are simply looking for excuses to cause mayhem and disrupt businesses.”
Murkomen praised Kenyan security officers, describing them as the country’s most patriotic citizens. He noted that despite facing significant economic and logistical challenges, officers continue to serve with discipline and dedication. “These men and women in uniform are the backbone of peace and order in our country,” he said.
Recalling the storming of Parliament on June 25, 2024, Murkomen described the incident as one of the worst security breaches in Kenya’s history. He contrasted Kenya’s approach with that of Western nations.
“In the UK, if someone tweets about going to Buckingham Palace or 10 Downing Street, they’re picked up immediately. In the US, the Secret Service would respond swiftly to any online threat targeting the White House,” he stated. “Only in Kenya can one threaten institutions of the state and still walk free.”
He also revealed that police officers are forced to regularly simulate responses to anticipated protests, placing further strain on already stretched security resources.
Murkomen urged Kenyans to value peace and the crucial role law enforcement plays in maintaining national stability. His remarks come amid renewed tension and growing public dissent, as youth groups continue to demand greater accountability and reforms from the government.
