Interior CS defends security measures amid Saba Saba protests

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has defended the security arrangements implemented during the July 7 (Saba Saba) demonstrations, crediting the National Police Service for averting large-scale destruction while safeguarding the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.

Speaking after touring various police deployment areas in Nairobi alongside Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, and other senior security officials, Murkomen expressed gratitude to law enforcement officers for their professionalism and restraint amid efforts to contain violent elements.

“We express our heartfelt gratitude to the security officers across the country who have today done their very best to contain the criminals and goons who were infiltrating peaceful protests by citizens,” Murkomen said.

“I am happy that as a result of their efforts, there was less damage today compared to what we witnessed last week,” the CS added.

The Interior CS acknowledged that some members of the public were inconvenienced due to heightened security measures but reiterated that the intention was to protect lives and property.

“To Kenyans who were inconvenienced by the measures implemented by the police, we say ‘poleni sana.’ We had to take these actions to ensure your safety and the protection of your property,” he said. “Kenyans should be grateful that, as much as possible, the National Police Service and the police officers minimized damage today.”

Murkomen confirmed that several individuals linked to last week’s unrest have already been arrested and charged, including those involved in acts of arson and destruction of public infrastructure.

“All the goons who caused mayhem last week, a number of them have been arrested, including those who burnt police stations, courts, government buildings, and government vehicles. Those who committed acts of terror have already been charged in court with terrorism,” he noted.

He further assured the public that security agencies will continue to pursue all individuals responsible for criminal acts.

“We believe in the rule of law. We will pursue all criminals and take them to court.”

Murkomen reiterated the government’s commitment to balancing public safety with the right to peaceful protest.

“It is our duty to protect the citizens of Kenya, safeguard their property, and ensure the safety of our officers as they carry out their responsibilities. We mean this; we want Kenyans to be safe,” he stated.

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo echoed Murkomen’s stance, emphasizing the need to maintain a secure environment for all.

“We will continue to do what we are expected to do in terms of ensuring this country is safe for people to express themselves while also allowing others to conduct their business uninterrupted,” said Omollo.