Murkomen Vows Tough Nationwide Crackdown on Hired Political Goons
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has declared a major nationwide operation targeting hired political goons after a series of violent incidents disrupted multiple by-elections across the country on Thursday, November 27, 2022.
Speaking on Monday, December 1, 2025, during the graduation ceremony of more than 6,000 Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs at the National Police College Embakasi ‘A’ Campus in Nairobi, Murkomen condemned the rising cases of violence, calling the trend “completely unacceptable” and a growing threat to public order.
Recent weeks have seen several politicians attacked during chaotic by-elections in different parts of the country.
In Malava, aspirant Seth Panyako was assaulted on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. In Kasipul, Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma was attacked by a mob during the voting process on Thursday, November 27, 2025.
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya was also assaulted earlier on Saturday, November 23, 2025.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was teargassed while attending a church service in Kariobangi North on Sunday, November 30, 2025, adding to concerns about rising political hostility.
Murkomen linked the growing violence to political leaders who allegedly recruit and arm young men to intimidate opponents or influence public gatherings.
He noted that these groups often carry weapons such as machetes and rungus, creating fear and making public functions increasingly difficult to manage.
“There is a worrying trend in this country, driven mainly by politicians, where goons are mobilized and armed to cause chaos at events. This must stop,” he said.
He added that chiefs and assistant chiefs have been facing mounting challenges in controlling public functions—even funerals—because of the insecurity caused by these groups.
Murkomen also applauded President William Ruto, saying he had made history by becoming the first Kenyan President since independence to preside over a graduation ceremony for chiefs.
He further revealed that findings from the Jukwaa La Usalama report highlighted serious weaknesses in the administrative system, including the lack of proper training for many chiefs.
To address the situation, the Interior CS said he had agreed with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to make the fight against political goons a top priority in the coming months.
He emphasized that the crackdown will be comprehensive, neutral, and enforced across all regions without favour or bias.
Murkomen assured the country that the government is determined to restore order and end the culture of political intimidation, warning that anyone involved in organizing or funding goons will face firm legal action.
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