Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has urged the Judiciary to impose severe penalties on individuals found guilty of orchestrating and participating in violent protests that have recently rocked parts of the country.
Speaking in Elgeyo Marakwet County during President William Ruto’s development tour, Murkomen warned that unless the Judiciary works hand-in-hand with the Executive to restore order, Kenya risks sliding into anarchy. His remarks follow a series of violent demonstrations where protestors reportedly torched police stations, looted businesses, and destroyed public property.
“They wanted to test whether we would take legal action. We will arrest all criminals who are attacking people and burning their property,” said Murkomen. “We have seen demonstrations before, but what we witnessed recently is unprecedented goons burning police stations, stealing guns, and setting courts on fire. That’s not what Article 37 of our Constitution provided for.”
He called on Chief Justice Martha Koome and the courts to take bold action, stating that leniency toward violent demonstrators would endanger national stability. “I ask the courts to be firm. If they don’t, they are going to put our country in trouble,” he emphasized. “As the Executive, we will be firm, but it is the duty of the Chief Justice and the courts to take the most severe steps to ensure we get rid of these anarchists.”
Murkomen further warned political leaders alleged to be inciting or funding the protests that the government would not spare anyone, regardless of their status or office. “Every leader, whether it’s an MCA, MP, Governor, or a former whoever, all of them will have their day in court,” he said.
President Ruto, who is on a day-long visit to the county, is expected to commission several development projects, including the Etio Dam Project, Simotwo Water Project, and the Tirwane Water Project. He is also set to oversee tree planting activities and officiate at the 9th Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme.
The government’s tough stance signals a firm approach in dealing with rising unrest and acts of violence during protests.
