Murkomen Says State Ready for Talks With Families of Protest Victims, Slams Politicians Fueling Unrest
Nairobi – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has confirmed the government’s readiness to meet families who lost loved ones during political protests, saying the state will offer support and open a dialogue.
Murkomen spoke Tuesday morning at State House during a breakfast reception for FKF Premier League champions Kenya Police FC.
“We are ready to meet the families of victims who tragically lost their lives in politically driven protests,” Murkomen said. “We want to explore how we can support them not just from a policy perspective but from a human one.”
The Interior CS emphasized that open dialogue must take place without interference. He called out unnamed politicians and activists for allegedly blocking families from engaging with state officials.
“I want to urge political actors to step aside and allow the affected families to speak to us directly,” Murkomen said. “They deserve that space.”
The families in question include relatives of youth killed during last year’s anti-tax demonstrations, which turned violent in several towns across Kenya. Public outcry has mounted over lack of justice and accountability in the aftermath.
Murkomen further warned against political leaders who, under the cover of peaceful demonstrations, are accused of plotting unrest and distributing weapons.
“It is unfortunate that those who once defended the rule of law are now instigating chaos,” he said. “We will be ruthless in dealing with anyone found mobilizing violence. Kenya is a country of law and order.”
His remarks come amid rising political tension as calls for mass protests resurface around tax, governance, and police accountability issues. Human rights organizations have also demanded investigations into cases of police violence during previous protests.
The State House event brought together key government officials, including President William Ruto, Sports CS Salim Mvurya, Blue Economy CS Hassan Joho, and Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja.
Kenya Police FC and Police Bullets FC were honored for winning the FKF Men’s and Women’s Premier League titles for the 2024/25 season. The ceremony was symbolic, linking law enforcement’s role in national security with its growing presence in sports and community engagement.
While the breakfast focused on football achievements, Murkomen’s statements underscored a wider political climate still grappling with the fallout of protest deaths and growing demands for justice.
No dates have been confirmed yet for meetings between the government and victims’ families. The Interior Ministry has said it will announce its next steps soon.
