By Faith Anene, Kakamega
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has cautioned opposition leaders against politicizing national security matters, assuring Kenyans that the country remains safe and that there are no foreign military installations in the northern region.
Speaking in Kakamega Town on Friday ahead of a regional security conference, Murkomen urged former government officials to refrain from making what he termed “irresponsible statements” that could mislead the public and destabilize the nation. He emphasized that security agencies are on high alert, adding that the safety of Kenyans remains a top priority for the government.
The CS further warned politicians accused of hiring criminal gangs for personal protection during rallies, insisting that such practices are unlawful and will be dealt with firmly.
“Opposition leaders should be ready to follow the law and engage security agencies for necessary notifications whenever they have meetings or political rallies. There is no need to hire goons and gangs for protection,” he said.
Murkomen appealed to the Judiciary to collaborate with his ministry to ensure criminals face justice instead of being released on bond shortly after arrest. He argued that such leniency undermines security operations and emboldens offenders.
“Part of the reason why people think nothing can be done is that some offenders are arrested, taken to court, and released on free bond. We must work together with the Judiciary and the ODPP to ensure serious action is taken,” he noted.
On the upcoming by-elections, Murkomen assured the public that adequate measures have been put in place to guarantee credible and peaceful polls.
“Our people should be assured that their safety is guaranteed. Security agencies have made every plan to ensure no violence or interference will occur,” he said.
At the same time, the Interior CS raised concerns over growing social and security challenges in Kakamega County, singling out illicit alcohol production, drug abuse, and defilement as the most pressing issues. He revealed that Kakamega is currently the top producer of illicit brew in Kenya, with large-scale operations supplying neighboring counties.
“Most of this alcohol is not licensed and does not meet the standards of Kebs. In the last eight months, over 30,000 litres of cha’ngaa have been confiscated and abandoned, while several suspects have been arrested and charged,” Murkomen disclosed.
He also expressed concern over the growing acceptance of marijuana in areas bordering Vihiga County, assuring residents that security agencies are intensifying efforts to dismantle large-scale production and distribution networks.
The CS further decried the rise in defilement cases, noting that Kakamega records between 15 and 18 cases monthly, with more than 100 incidents reported in the past eight months.
“These cases are often fueled by alcohol, drugs, and cultural activities, particularly disco matanga. Some of the defilement incidents we are handling have been perpetuated during such gatherings,” he said.
To tackle the problem, Murkomen announced plans to engage chiefs and assistant chiefs in frank discussions on curbing the vice.
He also pledged to work with the Kakamega County Government to expand rescue centres for survivors of defilement.
“We need to ensure that defiled girls are protected, supported, and provided with safe spaces as their cases proceed in court,” he added.
