Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen criticized the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) for what he termed a hasty judgment of how police dealt with recent anti-government demonstrations.
Addressing the residents in Baringo County during the 21st Jukwaa la Usalama Security Baraza, Murkomen defended the police officers, saying that they rightfully used force to safeguard lives, property, and vital installations.
“Police have a right to protect both themselves and citizens. How has IPOA measured force? How has it measured the force used against police stations? You cannot quantify how force was used,” Murkomen stated firmly.
His remarks came just two days after IPOA released a report criticizing the police’s response during the July 7 (Saba Saba) and June 25th demonstrations, where officers were accused of using disproportionate force on protesters.
Murkomen stood by the National Police Service, insisting officers who acted within the law would receive full support from the government.
“We won’t protect police officers who break the law,” he said. “But we also won’t leave our law-abiding officers to be vilified or attacked unfairly.”
He cautioned IPOA against issuing what he termed as “inconclusive and premature” findings before investigations are complete.
Murkomen also addressed the long-standing injustice in the North Rift region, naming Tiaty as one of the worst-hit regions by banditry.
He noted that the government is scaling up efforts to end the peace, starting with the construction of seven police stations in the region four of which will be ready by December
“Infrastructure is a key part of ending insecurity. We’re investing in roads, police posts, and more schools in these affected areas,” he said.
Local leaders echoed his concerns and called for urgent interventions.
“We want the entire Baringo pacified,” said Governor Benjamin Cheboi.
“Our women can’t find food for their children,” added Baringo Woman Rep Jemetiah Seroney.
“Watu wetu walitoroka kwa sababu ya kukosa usalama,” said Mogotio MP Reuben Kiborek, noting that many residents fled due to insecurity.
Baringo East MP Felix Makilap added that residents feel neglected by the state, urging the national government to step up efforts.
Even as the government promotes peace through infrastructure and amnesty programs, troubling intelligence reports suggest some officers deployed in the region may be aiding the very criminals they are meant to fight.
“One rogue officer claimed to have used 950 bullets in an operation when in truth he only fired 50,” Murkomen disclosed, pointing to corruption and manipulation within security forces.
To counter this, the state is rolling out a combination of hard and soft measures deploying forces, investing in roads, and encouraging reformed bandits to join technical training institutes.
Whether this two-pronged approach will bear fruit remains to be seen. But for the people of Baringo, the urgency is real and so is their demand for lasting peace.
