Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has defended his short tenure at the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, citing data showing significant improvements in national security, particularly in bandit-prone regions.
Responding to criticism, Murkomen urged skeptics to focus on facts rather than political rhetoric. “Give us the statistics and the numbers,” he said, emphasizing that tangible progress has been made since he assumed office five months ago.
According to the 2025 Quarter One security report, deaths resulting from banditry dropped from 58 in early 2024 to 21 in the same period this year. Reported cases of stock theft also fell from 263 to 167, and livestock thefts declined from 8,557 to 4,935.
Murkomen credited the progress to the dedication of police officers and National Police Reservists (NPR), rather than personal efforts. He reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating cattle rustling and restoring peace, especially in Laikipia, Baringo South and Kerio Valley. He also warned against individuals allegedly profiting from insecurity and vowed that such exploitation would no longer be tolerated.
Drawing from his own experience growing up in conflict-afflicted areas, Murkomen called for unity among leaders and rejected the arming of communities as a solution, urging for sustainable peace-building efforts.
Written By Rodney Mbua
