Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has defended the government's record on abductions, claiming the Kenya Kwanza administration has done more than previous regimes to curb the vice. He made these remarks during a National Assembly plenary session on Wednesday, amid continued public concern over cases of missing persons and alleged abductions. Murkomen stated that reported cases of kidnappings and abductions had declined sharply since 2022.
According to Murkomen, the administration has established a specialised Anti-Abduction Investigations Unit to handle such cases, demonstrating the government's commitment to addressing the problem. He maintained that the administration had prioritised ending extrajudicial killings and other security violations, a commitment made during the 2022 election campaign. Murkomen acknowledged that security challenges persisted but urged Kenyans to assess the government's performance using facts and a balanced understanding of the situation.
The CS linked the government's security interventions to preparations for the 2027 General Election, saying efforts were underway to ensure citizens could participate in the polls without intimidation. He stated that security agencies were working to dismantle criminal gangs that could disrupt political activities and threaten public safety. Murkomen further cited the intensified crackdown on illicit alcohol, drugs, and substance abuse as part of wider efforts to improve public security and protect young people.
Murkomen said the government considered the illegal trade a threat to public health, community safety, and the country's future, adding that security agencies had stepped up operations against those involved. He also mentioned that security agencies were investigating reported incidents, including cases that turned out to be self-abductions. The CS urged Kenyans to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
On security along the Kenya-Ethiopia border, Murkomen said the government had strengthened security arrangements to protect the country's territorial integrity, particularly around Moyale. He stated that Nairobi was pursuing diplomatic engagement with Addis Ababa to prevent instability in Ethiopia from spilling across the border. Murkomen added that the government was approaching the situation in Moyale diplomatically to prevent any spillover of the conflict.
The government's efforts to improve security have been ongoing, with a focus on addressing the root causes of insecurity. Murkomen mentioned that the government had made significant progress in reducing cases of abductions and kidnappings. He encouraged Kenyans to support the government's efforts to improve security and ensure public safety.
As the 2027 General Election approaches, the government is working to ensure that citizens can participate in the polls freely and safely. Murkomen stated that the government was committed to providing a secure environment for Kenyans to exercise their democratic rights. With 278 days, 2 hours, and 10 minutes to the 2027 election, the government's focus on security is expected to continue.
Key points
- The Kenya Kwanza administration has established a specialised Anti-Abduction Investigations Unit to handle cases of abductions and kidnappings.
- Reported cases of kidnappings and abductions have declined sharply since 2022.
- The government is working to ensure citizens can participate in the 2027 General Election freely, safely, and without intimidation.
