Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has strongly defended the country’s security agencies against mounting criticism over their handling of banditry and terror threats.
Speaking during the National Police Service Development Partners Roundtable at the Kenya School of Government on Wednesday, Murkomen dismissed accusations that the government has failed to curb insecurity.
He argued that many critics, particularly from the media and social media, do not understand the challenges security officers face daily.
To counter the criticism, the CS proposed that journalists and commentators be taken to security operation zones to witness firsthand the risks law enforcement officers endure.
“I wish we could take some of these editors, journalists, and bloggers—not for the whole day, but even for half a day—to operational areas like Elwak,” he said, offering to facilitate transport for willing media personnel.
Murkomen further stressed that continuous negative coverage demoralizes officers working in high-risk areas, despite their efforts to maintain order.
He urged for a more balanced approach in reporting security matters, stating that media narratives often fail to capture the complexity of policing in volatile regions.
His remarks come amid growing public concern over increasing cases of banditry, abductions, and attacks targeting security personnel.
Since assuming office, Murkomen has faced criticism over the government’s response to these challenges, with many questioning the effectiveness of its security strategies.
