The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has condem reckless, insensitive and misleading comments following the nationwide protests held on 25th June 2025.
In particular, the Society took sharp aim at Interior Cabinet Secretary Onesmus Kipchumba Murkomen for remarks that appeared to support police brutality and extrajudicial killings during the demonstrations.
In a statement, LSK President Faith Odhiambo firmly rejected assertions that the Society is aligned with any political agenda. “The Law Society of Kenya operates in strict conformity with the statutory framework that governs its mandate. Our allegiance lies squarely with the rule of law, the Constitution, public interest, and our membership. Any suggestion to the contrary is preposterous,” she stated.
Odhiambo said the LSK was deeply disturbed by Murkomen’s public remarks that seemingly encouraged the excessive use of force by police and undermined legal safeguards. “We are disenchanted that a sworn Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and member of the Law Society is capable, in good conscience, of not only encouraging belligerence by the police, but worse still, congratulating it,” she said.
Citing Chapter Six of the Constitution, Odhiambo reminded Murkomen of his duty to uphold the law, noting that his recent comments amounted to a betrayal of his oath as a state officer and advocate.
She cautioned that the Constitution only allows the use of lethal force by police in exceptional and narrowly defined circumstances.“Contrary to Mr. Murkomen’s perilous and legally impotent declarations, the use of force by police is limited under the law. The issuance of firearms does not confer a blanket power to use them against civilians,” she noted.
She referenced Section 61 of the National Police Service Act, which restricts the use of firearms and mandates reporting and review after discharge.
The LSK also issued a stern warning to the National Police Service, stating that compliance with any unlawful shoot-to-kill orders would amount to criminal acts. “The Cabinet Secretary has no authority under the law to issue such an order. Any officer found engaging in unjustified aggression, disproportionate use of force, or extrajudicial killings will be prosecuted in their individual capacity,” said Odhiambo.
She urged Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to ensure his officers remain faithful to their oath and disregard illegal directives, warning that command responsibility could extend criminal liability to senior leadership.
Odhiambo further rejected any narrative suggesting Kenya is descending into anarchy, stating that peaceful civic expression is constitutionally protected and must not be met with state violence.
She reaffirmed LSK’s commitment to defending the Constitution and upholding the rule of law.“We will remain persistent in calling out atrocities against human rights, regardless of whatever circumstances are alleged by perpetrators of illegalities to justify their actions,” she added.
