Murkomen's word ignites a nation's pain

Murkomen's words ignites a Nation's pain

By Mong'are Priscillah 

The recent remarks made by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has stimulated a storm of emotions across the Nation.

His statement supporting the idea of shooting to kill has shocked many Kenyans across the country, even some police officers have strongly criticized it.

Murkomen's remarks came shortly after Kenya observed a heartfelt anniversary to honor those who lost their lives during the 2024 Gen Z protests. 

What was supposed to be a day of peaceful remembrance turned chaotic as a fight between security forces and demonstrators resulted in the tragic deaths of 19 more Kenyans, adding to the already long list of victims of police brutality in the country.

Murkomen's statement have sparked anger across the nation, with concerns raised about the government's commitment to safeguarding the lives and rights of its citizens.

A section of the police officers have dified murkomen's shoot to kill order. They have termed the directive as unconstitutional and morally wrong. Most of them claim that their duty is to protect life and property, not to harm unarmed individuals.

Human rights organizations have also expressed alarm, marKing the statement as an incitement to extrajudicial killings.

They have called on President William Ruto to clarify and address the issue.

The Law Society of Kenya criticized Murkomen for the remarks following the nationwide protests held on June, accusing him of supporting unlawful police violence.

"We have noted with great revulsion the public statements made by the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of the National Government Onesmus Kipchumba Murkomen, regarding his views on police conduct during demonstrations and what has been indicated as the Government's policy position on police excesses and extrajudicial killings."

Despite the pressure, Murkomen has stood by his comments, claiming that his sentiments were misunderstood. The calls for his resignation are growing louder.