Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has strongly defended the government’s decision to prefer terrorism charges against some suspects arrested during the recent wave of anti-government protests, insisting that their actions went beyond mere political expression.
Speaking at a press briefing, Murkomen cited attacks on police stations during the protests on June 25 and July 7 as acts aimed at destabilising the country and undermining democratic institutions. “By the time you’re going for a police station, your intention is not to loot or pass your message. Your aim is to undermine democracy and reignite fear among Kenyans,” he said.
Murkomen maintained that such incidents fall under the Anti-Terrorism Act, noting that the objective of the perpetrators was to create panic and portray the government as powerless. He warned that the government would not allow orchestrated violence to be disguised as lawful protest.
Nearly 1,500 people have been arrested nationwide in connection with the protests, which turned violent in several counties. Charges include robbery with violence, arson, malicious damage to property, and attacks on critical infrastructure. Of those arrested, 50 are under probe by the Serious Crimes Investigations Unit, while 71 cases are being handled by the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit.
The Interior CS praised the judiciary for supporting law enforcement efforts by allowing sufficient time for investigations and expressed hope that successful prosecutions would set a precedent. “I look forward to convictions so people can separate those exercising Article 37 rights from those inciting violence,” Murkomen said.
Despite the heavy crackdown, Murkomen concluded by reaffirming support for peaceful demonstrations, stating, “My dream is to see peaceful demonstrators walking the streets, escorted by police officers.”
The remarks come amid ongoing public debate over the government’s handling of protests and the legal boundaries between civic activism and criminal conduct.
