Murkomen Directs Police To Be Ruthless With Protesters Who Resort To Violence During Saba Saba

Interior Cabinet Secretary warns of zero tolerance for destruction while calling for peaceful demonstrations

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued a stern warning to potential protesters ahead of Monday’s Saba Saba demonstrations, directing police to deal ruthlessly with those who resort to violence and destruction of property.

Speaking at Mwanika Catholic Church in Meru County, Murkomen drew a clear distinction between peaceful protesters and those intent on causing chaos, emphasizing that the government will not tolerate attacks on public infrastructure.

“The police should be as peaceful as doves when dealing with Kenyans. However, they should be ruthless with criminals and violent protesters who want to destroy our country,” Murkomen stated. “Those coming to protest on Monday should state their demands and go home.”

The Interior CS made it clear that the government will not permit the burning of police stations, courts, and other government installations under the guise of protests, referencing the destruction witnessed during previous demonstrations.

Murkomen’s directive comes as the country prepares for Monday’s Saba Saba protests, with the government taking a hardline approach to potential violence.

The CS emphasized that while Kenyans have constitutional rights to peaceful demonstrations and free speech, these rights do not extend to attacking others or destroying property.

“Most people are blaming the police, yet the demonstrators are often the source of the lawlessness. There are people using violence to play politics. Let us reject such leaders and only support those who present their agenda peacefully,” he said.

The Interior CS invoked the memory of former Security Minister John Michuki, praising his firm approach to handling criminal gangs and suggesting that similar firmness is necessary to maintain order.

While maintaining a tough stance on violence, Murkomen also called on police to strengthen community policing initiatives to foster better interaction between officers and the public. He urged law enforcement to deal calmly with those who observe the rule of law.

The CS specifically referenced the damage caused during the June 25 protests, stating that such destruction cannot be tolerated going forward.

“If we are not firm, we won’t have a country to bequeath future generations. We must defend our country against destruction,” Murkomen declared.

The Interior CS concluded by assuring Kenyans that the government has good intentions and remains committed to the country’s well-being and peace.