This Was No Protest But A Failed Coup Attempt, Murkomen Decries

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued a stern warning against those behind the recent violent unrest in the country, describing the events not as civil protests but as a failed coup attempt aimed at overthrowing President William Ruto’s administration.

Speaking during the official opening of the newly established Tarasaa Sub-County in Garsen Constituency, Murkomen condemned what he termed a coordinated act of terrorism and political sabotage.

“We must say it as it is, there was no protest or maandamano. It was an attempted coup, an act of terrorism, a failed attempt to change regime. It’s unacceptable,” he said.

The Cabinet Secretary dismissed the narrative that the chaos was purely driven by youth movements, instead pointing a finger at political actors who, he claimed, organized and financed violent gangs.

“We know very well that the people who invaded courts, police stations, stole guns, and burnt stations and government vehicles, were organized by lords of violence and people who are opponents of democracy,” he added.

The CS further emphasized that the violence witnessed in several parts of the country was meticulously planned by individuals with political motives.

“It is unbelievable that in particular areas of the country some political actors organized goons to invade police stations, destroy public and private properties and some people are still giving excuses,” he said.

He criticized what he termed “double speak” from some quarters, where calls for law enforcement are quickly followed by complaints when arrests are made.

“Hatuwezi ambiwa mali imeharibiwa kwa nini serikali haichungi, kisha tukishika wakora watu wanalalamika,” he said.

All criminals will be prosecuted

Murkomen assured Kenyans that the government, in collaboration with the police, is committed to apprehending and prosecuting those responsible for Monday’s chaos.

“Tutahakikisha kwamba wakora wote, ambao walipora mali ya umma, kuvamia police station, kuchoma korti, na wale waliiba bunduki, wameshikwa na kushtakiwa na kufungwa kwa makossa waliofanya,” he declared.

The CS urged the Judiciary to take decisive action against those implicated in acts of lawlessness.

“If the Judiciary is serious, it is going to help us sort out this problem once and for all,” he said, adding, “I want to urge our Courts, Chief Justice and Judges, to take a firm stance against arson, terrorism, and all acts of violence, vandalism, robbery, and stealing, so that our country remains a country known for rule of law.”

Murkomen stressed that the government will not allow the nation to descend into chaos driven by criminal elements disguised as demonstrators.

“Tusipochukulia hatua kwa wahalifu, nchi yetu itatawaliwa na wakora,” he cautioned.