“I’ll Say It a Million Times”- Murkomen Defends ‘Shoot-to-Kill’ Remarks
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has stood firm on his recent “shoot-to-kill” comments, saying police officers have every right to defend themselves and protect others when faced with danger.
Speaking on Friday during the launch of Tarasaa Sub‑County and the swearing-in of a Deputy County Commissioner in Oda, Garsen, Murkomen said his remarks were not new or out of line. He insisted he was simply echoing what past leaders had already said.
“Just the other day in Dagoretti and Kikuyu, I said police officers have the right to protect themselves and save lives. I’ll repeat that a million times—I’m not the first to say it,” Murkomen said.
He went on to claim that former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i and ex-President Uhuru Kenyatta made similar statements while addressing national security issues.
“When you hold a position like mine, your main job is to protect Kenyans and ensure the country is safe,” Murkomen added. “Matiang’i said it. Uhuru said it. I’m simply repeating what they said.”
Murkomen also criticised those calling his statement controversial, accusing them of playing politics. He pointed out that the same critics stayed quiet when similar remarks were made by others in power.
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“Now just because it’s Murkomen saying it, it’s a problem? Is it wrong to say that police officers should be protected and allowed to defend themselves?” he asked.
“Let’s stop the disrespect. We must take our national security seriously.”
Murkomen’s remarks have sparked backlash from human rights groups and legal experts.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) slammed the comments, calling them unconstitutional and beyond his powers. The LSK pointed out that only the police—not Cabinet Secretaries—are allowed to use or authorize the use of firearms.
In response, Murkomen later clarified that his statement wasn’t a change in policy. He said it aligns with the National Police Service Act, which already allows police to use firearms in life-threatening situations.
Meanwhile, President William Ruto has taken a tough stance on violent protests, directing police to shoot criminals who pose as protesters and destroy property.
“We want a peaceful Kenya where businesses can thrive,” President Ruto said. “If someone tries to burn property or loot businesses, shoot them in the leg, take them to hospital, and then to court.”
“I’ll Say It a Million Times”- Murkomen Defends ‘Shoot-to-Kill’ Remarks
