Murkomen, Kanja summoned over rising insecurity

(L) IG Douglas Kanja and Interior CS Murkomen before a joint parliamentary energy committee at Hilton Garden Inn, Machakos, February 12, 2026. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja are expected to appear before the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security today to address the country’s deteriorating security situation.

The meeting comes amid concerns of rising politically instigated violence in several regions, with reports that organised youth groups are being hired to disrupt public gatherings, intimidate opponents and confront security agencies.

At the same time, there have been growing complaints about escalating banditry attacks, with armed raiders stealing large herds of cattle, camels, goats and sheep, causing major economic losses and fatalities.

Murkomen has condemned leaders allegedly fuelling goonism, saying they are driven by a lack of ideas rather than efforts to empower young people. “The greatest threat to national security is not from slums or young people, but from leaders who plan how to recruit gangs to terrorise Kenyans,” he said.

He added that a crackdown on goonism had been launched, leading to the arrest of about 100 suspects in Nairobi and another 200 in Kitale, as security agencies intensify operations ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Last week, Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo, who chairs the committee, acknowledged the seriousness of the issue and urged MPs to attend today’s session.

Speaker Moses Wetang’ula directed that the Interior CS appear before the committee following growing pressure from MPs over insecurity.

Separately, Murkomen and Kanja are also expected before the Senate Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Relations on Thursday to explain the rising politically motivated attacks.

Senators, led by Chairperson Fatuma Dullo, previously declined to proceed with a session after the CS and IG failed to appear in person, insisting accountability requires their direct attendance.