Kenya's Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has stated that anyone involved in the unlawful disappearance of citizens is a criminal, regardless of their position in the security agencies. Speaking in the National Assembly, Murkomen emphasized that there is no government directive, ministry policy, or security agency mandate that authorizes the abduction of citizens. He stressed that security officers involved in such acts are misusing their authority.
Murkomen highlighted that arrests must be conducted in accordance with the law, with suspects presented in court within 24 hours as required by the Constitution. He maintained that anyone operating outside the constitutional framework is committing a criminal act. The Cabinet secretary distinguished between legitimate security operations and rogue activities, stating that "government doesn't abduct people" but "rogue police officers can work with rogue criminals to abduct people."
The Cabinet secretary assured lawmakers that suspected abductions and cases of missing persons are investigated individually. He promised that the government would provide Parliament with updates on specific cases raised by lawmakers. However, Murkomen noted that he had not been briefed on the investigation status of some cases and would respond in writing to avoid providing unverified information.
Murkomen emphasized that the government is committed to ending extrajudicial killings and abductions. He stated that investigations are ongoing into cases reported to authorities. However, he also claimed that some reported abductions had been fabricated, particularly those involving political leaders. Murkomen stated that those found to have made false claims had been taken to court.
The Cabinet secretary's remarks sparked an exchange with a Member of Parliament who challenged Murkomen's account of his own arrest. The MP pointed out that he had not been charged and had been released due to lack of evidence. The Speaker intervened to restore order, directing members to avoid direct exchanges with the Cabinet secretary.
Murkomen also addressed security concerns in border areas, including Kibish in Turkana and Moyale. He noted that conflict in Ethiopia had affected Kenya's security situation. The government is engaging Ethiopia diplomatically while security agencies, including the military, work to secure the borders against incursions.
The Cabinet secretary further acknowledged shortages of police vehicles in some areas, stating that procurement is ongoing. He expected the government to provide at least one vehicle to every sub-county by January or February. This move aims to enhance security and response capabilities in regions with limited resources.
Key points
- Murkomen denies government involvement in abductions, calling those responsible "criminals."
- The government is committed to ending extrajudicial killings and abductions.
- Murkomen acknowledges security concerns in border areas and police vehicle shortages.
