Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen has called for reforms to strengthen the security apparatus of legislative institutions, enhanced training and legal protections for Serjeant at Arms, citing the 2024 invasion of Parliament as a turning point.
Speaking during the 3rd National Conference of Serjeant-at-Arms, CS Murkomen described the invasion of Parliament on June 25, 2024, as a defining moment that exposed vulnerabilities within Kenya’s democratic institutions.
“The one of the lowest point in our recent history is the invasion of the precincts of Parliament.” said Murkomen.
The CS cautioned that while security at the national level has since been reinforced, County Assemblies remain exposed to similar threats and must urgently strengthen their preparedness.
“If such a thing happens to a county assembly, there is need for us in this forum to prepare and imagine such scenarios,” he said. “I propose that Serjeants-at-Arms in County Assemblies must have direct contact with county security teams and a seat in County Security Committees.”
CS Murkomen emphasized that institutional security must be anchored on both coordination and capacity, proposing paramilitary training for Serjeants-at-Arms to enhance their response to emerging threats.
“We can find ways of making paramilitary training available for Serjeants-at-Arms in counties,” he stated.
The CS noted that threats facing legislative institutions have evolved beyond physical confrontations to include misinformation, cyber risks, and procedural manipulation. He described technology as a double-edged sword, warning that while it enhances surveillance, it also creates new vulnerabilities.
“New technology is both an asset and a risk,” he cautioned, adding that misinformation and disinformation circulating on social media can easily incite public unrest and mobilize attacks on institutions.
Mr. Murkomen called for urgent legislative amendments to protect the Office of the Serjeant-at-Arms from political interference. He noted that many officers face a dilemma when ordered by leadership to facilitate “procedural sittings” that lack an order paper.
“We must introduce legislative measures that protect Serjeants-at-Arms and make it punitive for Members to use force to achieve their objectives,” the CS stated. He further warned officers against participating in irregular acts, such as switching off CCTV or microphones to manipulate house records.
Digital Threats
He further urged officers to uphold integrity and resist involvement in irregular practices, including manipulation of proceedings.
“Do not participate in unlawful processes such as switching off microphones or CCTV to manipulate proceedings. Stand firm. The law must protect you,” he advised.
CS Murkomen challenged stakeholders to move beyond discussions and implement concrete reforms that will safeguard legislative institutions.
“Institutions outlast individuals. The systems we build today will protect future generations and uphold democracy,” he said.
By Anthony Solly
