Kerio valley: Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen has warned politicians against bankrolling goons to perpetuate acts of thuggery in rallies. He stated that the government will no longer tolerate such acts of violence for political purposes and warned that those found guilty of disrupting public order will face the full force of the law.
According to Kenya News Agency, Murkomen, speaking at Chepsirei Grounds in Keiyo South Sub-county, emphasized that political hooliganism has no place in a democratic society. He urged the youth to reject handouts from leaders who seek their support to cause mayhem or intimidate fellow politicians, stating that their days were numbered. The Cabinet Secretary made it clear that criminal acts disguised as politics would be treated as security offenses and addressed through the criminal justice system.
‘I want to tell you categorically that as a Government, we are not going to entertain any further use of young people, turning them into goons and using them in public to terrorise citizens,’ Murkomen declared. He highlighted that the Government had already implemented firm policy decisions aimed at ending politically instigated violence and maintaining law and order during political gatherings and public engagements.
Murkomen further explained that decisive actions have been taken, pointing to ongoing clean-up operations in Kitale and Kisumu as evidence. ‘Those goons have been arrested, brought before court and are now facing the justice system,’ he said. He reiterated that the National Police Service had received clear directives to intensify enforcement operations against criminal gangs and individuals inciting violence.
The Cabinet Secretary called on political leaders to promote peace and responsible leadership by engaging youths in productive economic activities rather than exposing them to violence and criminal activities. ‘We are not intimidated. We will stand firm to ensure that all those causing chaos in our country are arrested and taken to court,’ he stressed.
Murkomen observed that the Government is actively implementing various empowerment and development programs targeting young people to create employment opportunities and reduce their vulnerability to manipulation by self-seeking individuals. He affirmed the Government’s commitment to safeguarding national security, protecting lives and property, and ensuring that all citizens can exercise their democratic rights in a peaceful environment.
