Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has strongly criticized the Cabinet Secretary for the Interior and National Administration, Kipchumba Murkomen, for his handling of the country’s security situation. Cherargei expressed concerns over the increasing levels of insecurity, citing alarming incidents of violence, including attacks by machete-wielding gangs, terrorist activities, and general lawlessness across various regions.
He argued that since Murkomen took office, internal security has deteriorated significantly, leading to an upsurge in violent incidents. According to Cherargei, poor management of the security sector has led to the loss of lives, which cannot be reversed. He emphasized that while failures in infrastructure development could be rectified, failures in internal security result in permanent losses.
The senator highlighted a recent incident where the Head of Public Service (HOPS) personally confronted bandits in the North Rift, an indication that security measures were failing under Murkomen’s leadership. He pointed out that such actions should not be necessary if the security apparatus were functioning efficiently.
Additionally, Cherargei compared the current situation to the tenure of the previous Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kithure Kindiki, who, according to him, had maintained better control over security issues. He claimed that under Kindiki’s leadership, substantial efforts had been made to contain violence, but under Murkomen’s watch, insecurity has spread widely. Previously peaceful areas have now become crime hotspots, including towns like Kapsabet, where a murder was recently reported just 200 metres from the police headquarters.
His criticism comes in the wake of escalating insecurity in several parts of the country. On March 23, armed militants attacked a National Police Reserve camp in Fafi, Garissa County, killing six officers and seriously injuring four others. Reports indicate that the attackers used a variety of weapons to overrun the camp before fleeing. Security forces, led by specialized anti-terror units, have since launched investigations into the attack.
Another incident occurred on February 3, when five local administrators were ambushed and abducted by suspected terrorists in Elwak, Mandera County. The officials were reportedly on their way to coordinate security ahead of a high-profile visit to the area. The incident sent shockwaves through the region, raising further concerns about the increasing influence of armed groups.
Additionally, concerns have emerged over an ongoing crisis at the Kenya-Ethiopia border. In Todonyang, more than 20 individuals were reported missing following attacks. Security forces have since launched search operations, but only two bodies have been recovered so far. Authorities have acknowledged the gravity of the situation and mobilized resources to address the crisis, including engaging diplomatic channels to ensure the safe return of missing persons.
Critics argue that the current state of security highlights systemic failures in managing national safety. Many believe that Murkomen’s approach to handling security challenges has been ineffective, leading to a sense of helplessness among citizens. The proliferation of criminal gangs, increasing cases of terrorism, and frequent attacks in urban and rural areas suggest a breakdown in security operations.
Residents of affected areas have voiced concerns over the lack of adequate police response and intelligence-driven operations to curb insecurity. There have been calls for increased government intervention, better resource allocation to security agencies, and improved strategies to address emerging threats.
The growing insecurity has also sparked debates over policy changes within the security sector. Some analysts suggest that a review of counter-terrorism measures and crime prevention strategies is necessary to restore order. Others argue that leadership changes may be required to ensure a more effective approach to tackling insecurity.
Despite these criticisms, the Interior Ministry maintains that efforts are being made to contain the situation. Officials have assured the public that security operations are ongoing to apprehend perpetrators of violence and restore stability in affected regions. However, many remain skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures, given the increasing frequency of attacks.
The unfolding security situation continues to be a major concern for citizens, with growing calls for urgent action to prevent further loss of lives and property. As debates over security management persist, it remains to be seen whether new measures will be implemented to address the pressing issue and restore confidence in the country’s security forces.
