Murkomen Speaks After Chaos During Gachagua’s Return from JKIA
Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has broken his silence after the chaotic scenes that unfolded when former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was stoned and tear gassed while leaving Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday, August 21, 2025.
Murkomen strongly criticized the way the event was handled and explained why things turned violent. According to him, the main problem was that the organizers failed to notify the police about their planned reception for Gachagua.
He explained that the law requires such notifications not to deny anyone their rights, but to allow the police to prepare and provide security.
Without proper communication, the police had no idea about the route or the size of the gathering, which left them unprepared for what eventually happened.
He also condemned the violence, especially the attacks directed at journalists who were caught in the chaos. Murkomen promised that anyone who organized or encouraged stone-throwing would face serious consequences.
He assured the public that investigations were already underway and that stern action would be taken against those responsible.
When asked about the heavy police presence at JKIA before Gachagua’s arrival, Murkomen distanced himself from the matter, saying he was not aware of any special deployment.
He explained that in normal circumstances, the police can make their own security arrangements without requiring direct approval from him or even from the Inspector General, unless there is a special request.
The CS went further to criticize the nature of Gachagua’s reception at the airport. He described the grand entry, with political drama and large crowds, as disruptive and of no real value.
In his view, JKIA is a sensitive and protected facility meant for aviation activities, not political rallies or showmanship.
He dismissed the spectacle as “pure razzmatazz” with no political, economic, or public relations value, and insisted that such displays should never be allowed inside the airport.
Murkomen said that if the organizers had worked hand in hand with the police, the reception would have taken place smoothly and peacefully.
He stressed that Kenya’s airports must remain secure and free from unnecessary disruptions that risk the safety of travelers and staff.
In summary, Murkomen’s message was clear: the violence was avoidable, the attacks on journalists were unacceptable, and political leaders should always follow the law by informing security agencies before holding public events.
He made it clear that those who planned the violent confrontation will be held accountable, while at the same time cautioning against using sensitive places like JKIA for political drama.
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