Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued a stern warning to chiefs, village elders, and families against settling defilement and gender-based violence cases at home. Speaking in Baringo on Sunday, September 20, 2026, Murkomen emphasized that perpetrators must be reported to the police and taken to court, stating that there should be no compromise on such matters. He highlighted the concerning trend of children being abused by people expected to protect them, including teachers, relatives, and fathers.
Murkomen expressed concern over the role of trusted adults in child abuse, noting that some of the people abusing children are those supposed to protect them. He urged parents, particularly mothers, not to remain silent when children are abused, including in cases where the alleged perpetrator is a family member. Murkomen emphasized the importance of taking such matters to the police and letting the law take its course, warning that silence can perpetuate the problem.
The Interior CS also called on parents to take greater responsibility for raising their children, warning against leaving child protection entirely to the state. He linked stronger families and parental involvement to efforts to tackle social problems such as alcohol abuse and addiction. Murkomen emphasized that parents should guide their children before intervention by police or other authorities becomes necessary.
Murkomen directed Baringo security officials to intensify a crackdown on illicit alcohol, including products made using ethanol. He warned those involved in selling illicit alcohol to stop, as it harms children and communities. The county commissioner and county police commander were directed to act against people involved in transporting, stocking, or selling illicit alcohol.
The warning comes amid continued concern over sexual violence and child abuse in Kenya. According to the 2026 Economic Survey by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, 7,154 people reported to have committed crimes against morality in 2025, a 6.6% decline from the previous year. Defilement accounted for 75.5% of those cases, or 5,401 reported offenders.
The State Department for Gender reported 531 cases of sexual and gender-based violence and morality-related offences in Central Kenya between June 2025 and April 2026, including 356 defilement cases. Murkomen's comments highlight the need for a collaborative approach to addressing these issues, involving both law enforcement and community involvement.
In conclusion, Murkomen's warning to chiefs and families emphasizes the importance of taking a firm stance against defilement and GBV. By urging parents to take responsibility and for perpetrators to face the law, the government aims to tackle these social problems and ensure a safer community for all. Key initiatives include increased enforcement against illicit alcohol and a focus on parental involvement in child protection.
Key points
- Murkomen warns chiefs and families against settling defilement and GBV cases at home.
- The government reports a decline in morality crimes, but defilement remains a significant concern.
- Murkomen calls for increased parental responsibility and community involvement in addressing social problems.
