Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has strongly defended Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri and National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director General Noordin Haji over their recent remarks regarding the ‘Ruto Must Go’ slogan.
Speaking at a church service marking the 8th anniversary of AIC Makueni in North Imenti, Meru County, Murkomen argued that the two security chiefs were issuing a caution based on intelligence, not mere opinion.
“They are warning you, they are warning your future and your country,” Murkomen stated, urging Kenyans to exercise their freedoms within constitutional limits.
The controversy began after Gen. Kahariri and Haji addressed concerns over political slogans during a public lecture at the National Intelligence and Research University (NIRU). Kahariri warned that while democracy allows freedom of speech, it must not be misused to incite anarchy, emphasizing that the military remains apolitical but committed to upholding national stability.
Murkomen echoed these sentiments, stressing that there are legal procedures for removing elected leaders, such as impeachment or recall. He cautioned politicians and social media activists against using language that could endanger national security.
“The future of this country depends on order. Otherwise, we would be facing similar instability as some of our neighbors,” he warned.
Beyond political issues, Murkomen also addressed the government’s ongoing security efforts. He praised the recent arrest of 120 members of the notorious ‘Panga Boys’ gang in the Coast region, affirming the government’s resolve to dismantle criminal groups nationwide.
He further condemned harmful cultural practices, referencing recent cases in Wajir and Nyamira where a girl was killed for rejecting a forced marriage and a woman was assaulted for refusing to follow burial customs.
Murkomen highlighted Operation Maliza Uhalifu in Laikipia County, aimed at eliminating banditry, and assured that administrative reforms were underway to enhance security.
Among the leaders present were Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma, MPs from the region, and county officials, all of whom pledged their support for government initiatives on security and youth protection.
