Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has publicly criticized leaders of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) for failing to inform security agencies of their planned itinerary during former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s homecoming event. The occasion, which took place on Thursday, was marred by violent clashes that left multiple people injured, including journalists, and several vehicles damaged.
Speaking at an event in Kirinyaga, Murkomen expressed his disappointment at the unrest, which involved hired goons attacking supporters along the procession route from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). He emphasized that the government had specifically requested that the DCP leadership notify police and other security agents in advance to ensure proper coordination and safety measures.
“Sometimes the police are just on standby to see whether there is any problem. Like yesterday, they were just on standby because there was no clear notification to them about what event was going to happen and on what routes,” Murkomen stated.
The Interior CS also condemned the involvement of political activists in activities within the airport, describing it as a protected area that should not be turned into a political playground. “It was very sad that political activists were going to play games inside our airports. The airport is a protected area and not a place for games like we saw. Whatever was being done was totally useless with no value to anyone,” he added.
According to eyewitness accounts and reports, armed youth believed to have been hired by political adversaries ambushed Gachagua’s convoy shortly after he left JKIA. The assailants, armed with stones and crude weapons, targeted vehicles and supporters, resulting in several injuries and significant property damage.
Murkomen confirmed that investigations are already underway to identify and apprehend those responsible for organizing and financing the goons. He warned that anyone found culpable—regardless of their political standing—would face arrest and prosecution.
In response to the incident, the government has pledged to enhance security protocols, including the deployment of additional police officers to protect members of the public who may be caught in the crossfire of political activities.
The violence has sparked widespread concern among Kenyans, many of whom are calling for greater accountability and stricter enforcement of public order regulations during political gatherings.
This event underscores the continuing tensions within the country’s political landscape and raises urgent questions about the safety and management of public events in the lead-up to future electoral processes.
