Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued a stern warning to political leaders inciting violence and promoting ethnic division, saying the government will take firm action regardless of political rank or affiliation.
Speaking on Sunday at the Nuru Africa Inland Church in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, Murkomen directed county security teams to clamp down on goonism and politically instigated chaos.
The CS emphasized that the government is committed to safeguarding national peace and security.“We are committed to ensuring a peaceful and secure nation for all and will not be threatened by anyone thinking we will spare them because of their position,” Murkomen declared.
He criticized politicians who move around with hired gangs, particularly at public gatherings, including funerals, disrupting peace and intimidating citizens. “As a leader, you are elected alone. Why move around with goons of up to 50 disturbing the peace of others, including in funerals?” he posed.
Trans Nzoia has witnessed a recent spike in gang-related violence and politically motivated disruptions, prompting concern among residents and officials.
Murkomen stressed that security agencies will act decisively against those fanning the flames of division.“There are those threatening our peace, thinking they are untouchable—thinking they are above the law because of their former senior positions in government,” he said. “Under my watch, we will not condone anyone who seeks to burn down our nation.”
He called for a new political culture rooted in decency and mutual respect. “We want to embrace the politics of decency, where everyone can speak freely and return to their families without fear of harm from hired goons,” Murkomen stated.
The CS was joined by Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang and a host of local political and religious leaders, who supported the government’s call for unity and peaceful coexistence.
Sitatunga Ward MCA Simon Murei echoed the CS’s remarks, lamenting the growing ethnic tension in the county. “It is sad that a seed of ethnic division is being planted in our villages. Trans Nzoia is a cosmopolitan county; leaders should avoid politics that divide communities along tribal lines,” he said.
