Murkomen vows prosecution of hired political goons

Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen speaks during the 40th Jukwaa La Usalama town hall meeting at the Homa Bay County Commissioner’s residence, September 16, 2025 /MINA

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has warned individuals involved in political hooliganism that they will face prosecution, emphasising that the government will not tolerate the growing menace of criminal gangs in politics and public life.

Speaking in Homa Bay County on Tuesday during the launch of his Jukwaa la Usalama security tour, Murkomen said the government is committed to dismantling criminal networks hired to intimidate communities and individuals.

The tour will conclude with a town hall meeting at the County Commissioner’s residence, where residents will share their views and collaborate with national and county government officials on security matters.

The CS was addressing a September 14 assault on a journalist.

He described the attack as “very unfortunate”.

Murkomen commended swift administrative action taken in response to the incident and highlighted the importance of cooperation between national and county leaders in addressing criminal activities.

"This kind of cooperation is really welcomed when leaders recognise that gangs and goons are not useful for our security or politics,” Murkomen said.

He added that the government is monitoring similar incidents in other regions, warning that the crackdown will be nationwide.

Citing reports from Kisii County, where gangs have allegedly detained and tortured victims, he promised decisive legal action.

“We will be taking very stern legal action, arresting these people and taking them to court,” he said, urging the Judiciary to expedite such cases and impose strict penalties to deter repeat offences.

Murkomen argued that firm and consistent punishment is essential to serve as an effective deterrent.

He noted that the use of hired goons to disrupt peaceful meetings, protests, and even funerals has been on the rise, stressing that the government will continue cracking down on such criminal elements.

“The culture of impunity must be dismantled to safeguard Kenya’s democracy,” he said.