Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has clarified that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi are not under any investigation for breaching confidentiality laws. Speaking during a public engagement, Murkomen dismissed claims that the two former state officers were persons of interest, emphasizing that no formal complaints had been lodged against them.
Murkomen reiterated that all public and state officers are bound by the Secrecy Act even after leaving office. However, he stressed that compliance is apolitical and purely aimed at safeguarding national security. “We have no complaint at the moment and no one is under investigation,” he said. He noted that the confidentiality law primarily covers sensitive government information that could jeopardize national security or border on espionage.
This assurance came after Members of Parliament raised concerns regarding the handling of classified information by former officials. Murkomen clarified that the government’s interest is solely in preventing breaches that could threaten national interests.
Separately, the Interior CS addressed the escalating crisis of illicit brews and counterfeit alcohol across the country. He directed National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) and the National Police Service (NPS) to intensify crackdowns on illegal brew dens and ensure the perpetrators are brought to book.
Murkomen revealed that counterfeit stamps of the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) are being used to legitimize fake alcoholic products. He assured the public that regional and county security teams are on high alert to curb the distribution and consumption of these harmful substances.
Acknowledging the widespread frustration among locals, particularly in Machakos and Makueni counties, Murkomen called for a multi-agency approach to dismantle the networks behind illicit alcohol. Locals urged chiefs and assistant chiefs to take firm action, lamenting that known offenders often escape justice.
The CS also hinted at tougher regulations for the alcohol sector, citing the devastating social and health impacts of adulterated and illicit brews. He affirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating the menace and protecting public health.
