Human rights organisations have moved to court seeking the removal of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, accusing him of inciting police to use lethal force during anti-government protests held on June 25, 2025.
In a petition filed before the High Court in Nairobi, Katiba Institute, the Kenya Human Rights Commission, and the Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU) allege that CS Murkomen violated the Constitution and his oath of office by making “reckless and dangerous” statements encouraging police to shoot anyone who approached police stations.
The remarks were made during a press briefing on June 26, a day after over ten people were reported dead during countrywide demonstrations. A video cited in the petition captures the CS saying, “We have told the police, anyone coming near a police station, shoot them. Anyone.”
The petitioners argue that the CS not only encouraged the use of unlawful lethal force but also misrepresented provisions of the National Police Service Act including clauses that had already been declared unconstitutional by the High Court in 2022. These provisions had allowed police to use firearms to protect property or prevent escape, but were struck down for violating the right to life and dignity.
Despite issuing a clarification on June 27, Murkomen did not retract his earlier remarks. Instead, he doubled down, stating that police officers knew their limits and would be defended by the government a stance the petitioners say emboldens extrajudicial killings.
“The Respondent’s statements are a mockery of the Constitution, inconsistent with its purpose and objects, and a betrayal of public trust,” reads court documents
The petition further lists violations of numerous constitutional articles including the right to life (Article 26), human dignity (Article 28), fair trial (Article 50), and the leadership integrity provisions (Article 73). It also cites sections of the National Police Service Act and the Public Officer Ethics Act, arguing that Murkomen overstepped his mandate by issuing orders that fall under the jurisdiction of the Inspector-General of Police.
