NAIROBI – Tensions continue to rise in Kenya following Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen’s controversial remarks instructing police to shoot civilians attempting to enter police stations. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has condemned the directive, calling it illegal, dangerous, and a clear invitation to extrajudicial killings.
Murkomen made the statement during a public address in Kikuyu Constituency on Thursday, one day after nationwide protests turned violent. At least 16 people were confirmed dead, according to Amnesty International, while hundreds sustained injuries, including law enforcement personnel.
The protests were staged to mark the anniversary of the June 25, 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations, where over 60 young protesters were killed in clashes with police. Protesters this week included youth groups identified with the Gen Z-led movement.
During his speech, Murkomen told a crowd near the Deputy County Commissioner’s office, “Na tumeambia polisi mtu yeyote atakaribia police station piga yeye risasi” translated as, “We have told police to shoot anyone who approaches a police station.” The remark drew immediate backlash, with parts of the crowd jeering as the CS defended his statement by adding, “Guns aren’t snacks.”
The government has linked the remarks to recent attacks on police stations in Dagoretti, Molo, and Ol Kalou. Authorities reported that five firearms were stolen in Dagoretti alone. Despite this, the LSK maintains that the directive violates both national and international law.
“The Cabinet Secretary has no power to issue such an order. It is unconstitutional and outside the limits of his office,” said LSK President Faith Odhiambo in a statement Friday. She warned that following such illegal instructions could expose officers to personal criminal liability.
The LSK cited Article 244 of the Constitution and the National Police Service Act, which restrict the use of firearms to life-threatening situations and as a last resort. The society also reminded officers of their individual responsibility under international human rights law.
Later Thursday night, Murkomen appeared to backtrack. Speaking at a police graduation ceremony in Kitui County, he said, “Polisi ambaye maisha yake iko hatarini akitumia silaha hatashtakiwa” meaning that only officers facing real danger would be protected from prosecution.
Still, outrage mounted across the country. Human rights groups, opposition leaders, and international observers denounced the government’s heavy-handed response to the June 25 protests. In cities like Nairobi, Kisii, Nyeri, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Eldoret, protesters clashed with police as security forces fired live rounds to disperse crowds.
Reports from multiple towns confirmed incidents of looting, vandalism, and property damage. Kenya Power reported the death of a security guard shot outside its Nairobi headquarters. Video footage circulating online showed police failing to stop looters and, in some cases, allegedly standing by.
President William Ruto, addressing the unrest, said the demonstrations were not peaceful. “These were acts of economic sabotage and planned destruction. We will bring those responsible to justice,” he stated.
In contrast, legal experts and civil society leaders urged calm and lawful responses. “Kenya is not a police state,” said Odhiambo. “Citizens must never be punished for demanding accountability.”
As investigations continue, LSK has urged officers to reject any unlawful directives and act only within the law. They emphasized that protecting life and the rule of law remains paramount—especially during unrest.
The government has yet to release a full account of casualties or arrests from the protests. Civil society groups have called for an independent inquiry into the use of force during the demonstrations.
