Murkomen Accuses MPs of Fueling Goon Culture

Kipchumba Murkomen has warned Members of Parliament that security agencies are investigating elected leaders suspected of financing and protecting criminal gangs, saying prosecutions will proceed once sufficient evidence is gathered.

Addressing legislators at a Kamukunji meeting, the Interior Cabinet Secretary said intelligence reports indicate that some MPs and senior politicians are directly involved in the formation and support of organised groups responsible for violence and public disorder. He stated that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations is collecting evidence against individuals believed to be sponsoring such activities. 

“If we come for you because of these gangs, don’t think it is political. It is purely a matter of security,” he told lawmakers.

Mr Murkomen accused certain politicians of using gangs as tools to advance their interests, leading to clashes between rival groups. He said that when confrontations occur, some leaders publicly criticise the government while concealing their own links to the groups involved. 

He also alleged that MPs have secured the release of arrested suspects and sought the transfer of police officers who refuse to cooperate with gang networks. Such actions, he said, have hindered efforts to combat organised crime and placed officers under pressure from influential figures.

The Cabinet Secretary further criticised the Judiciary, claiming that the granting of anticipatory bail and the release of suspects accused of serious offences have weakened enforcement efforts. He argued that this approach has allowed individuals linked to attacks on public institutions to regain their freedom quickly.

He warned that denying law enforcement agencies the opportunity to present suspects in court undermines the justice process and contributes to continued criminal activity. His remarks follow several high-profile incidents, including the storming of Parliament in June 2024, during which suspects were filmed vandalising property. 

Mr Murkomen said some MPs opposed the decision to charge those involved. He cautioned that gangs, once empowered, could ultimately turn against their sponsors, regardless of political allegiance.