Katiba Institute, KHRC Petition Court to Declare CS Murkomen Unfit for Office
Shockwaves hit Kenya’s political scene after Katiba Institute, Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), and other civil society groups filed a powerful petition against Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.
The groups moved to the High Court on July 2, 2025, asking judges to declare Murkomen unfit to hold office. Their demand? Immediate removal of the CS over his chilling ‘shoot-to-kill’ directive aimed at protesters.
In a joint statement, the civil society organizations condemned Murkomen’s words, saying they were not just reckless but a threat to human rights and democracy.
“The petition alleges that these comments constitute incitement to violence and unlawful acts,” read the statement.
“They amount to unacceptable ethical conduct required of a public officer,” the statement continued.
The groups argue that Murkomen, as a Cabinet Secretary and high-ranking state officer, must adhere to the rule of law, not promote brutality.
“We believe such utterances compromise the values enshrined in the Constitution,” said a representative from the KHRC.
The public outcry was immediate and intense. Many Kenyans took to social media, expressing outrage and fear over the directive. Others demanded accountability and transparency from those in power.
“Our youth are not criminals. They are frustrated. They are speaking out. They deserve protection, not bullets,” wrote one user on X.
Murkomen’s controversial comments came amid growing anti-government protests led by the Gen Z generation. The protests, which began peacefully, turned deadly after security forces allegedly used live ammunition.
The CS’s remarks, according to critics, may have fueled this aggression.
“A public officer must uphold peace, not declare war on citizens,” said a lawyer familiar with the petition.
The petitioners have asked the court to urgently intervene and stop the rising pattern of state violence.
“This case is about accountability. It’s about drawing a line between lawful authority and abuse of power,” emphasized the Katiba Institute.
Many now await the court’s ruling with bated breath. Will justice prevail? Will a Cabinet Secretary face the consequences of his words?
The nation watches. The stakes are high. And the call for justice echoes louder than ever.
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Katiba Institute, KHRC Petition Court to Declare CS Murkomen Unfit for Office
