By Erestinah Jane | July 6, 2026
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo have come under increasing public scrutiny over the government’s handling of security, with critics questioning the response to rising concerns about urban crime, political violence and reported abductions.
The criticism has emerged from sections of the public, civil society and opposition figures, who argue that the government should place greater emphasis on addressing insecurity and protecting businesses and communities. Government officials, however, have maintained that security agencies remain committed to preserving law and order and investigating criminal incidents.
Speaking during an event in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Murkomen defended his focus on political rhetoric that he believes could fuel unrest ahead of the 2027 General Election. Referring to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, the Cabinet Secretary said:
“Rigathi Gachagua, my business now until Kenya crosses 2027 safely is to monitor your activities in the Republic of Kenya. Hiyo kazi nitafanya usiku na mchana, you’re my single most point of focus because of the threat you’re posing as the father of violence.”
Murkomen also cautioned political leaders against using language that could inflame tensions, arguing that branding opponents as traitors has historically been associated with political violence.
His remarks have drawn mixed reactions, with some commentators supporting calls for vigilance against incitement while others argue that the government should prioritize tackling everyday insecurity affecting ordinary Kenyans.
Meanwhile, Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has faced criticism over the government’s response to reported abductions of activists. Some critics have questioned official statements denying police involvement and have called for transparent investigations into the incidents.
Omollo has previously emphasized the importance of allowing investigative agencies to establish the facts and has continued to highlight government programmes, including the rollout of the Social Health Authority (SHA), noting that registration has continued to grow in various parts of the country.
Opposition leaders and some civil society groups have also questioned the effectiveness of recent security initiatives, including the Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit, arguing that residents continue to experience incidents of crime in parts of the capital. Government officials have maintained that security operations are ongoing and that measures are being implemented to strengthen policing and public safety.
Separately, the opposition coalition Linda Mwananchi has accused Omollo of involvement in the mobilization of violent groups during political activities. Omollo has denied the allegations, and no court has found him liable in relation to those claims.
The debate highlights the growing public focus on security as a national issue ahead of the 2027 General Election, with calls from various stakeholders for enhanced policing, accountability and transparent investigations into reported incidents of violence and disappearances.
As political activity intensifies, security is expected to remain one of the defining issues in Kenya’s public discourse, with both government and opposition leaders facing increasing pressure to demonstrate how they intend to safeguard lives, property and constitutional rights.
