Raila slams Murkomen over 'shoot to kill' directive to police

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen continues to face growing backlash over controversial remarks he made two days ago, where he appeared to instruct police officers to “shoot to kill.”

The statement has sparked outrage across the country, with the latest criticism coming from former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who slammed the CS for what he termed as reckless and unlawful directives.

“Anybody giving instructions that mtu anayekaribia police station apigwe risasi… shame on you,” said Odinga.

Speaking in Bondo, the ODM leader condemned Murkomen’s comments, stating that the police are not licensed to kill and that such utterances undermine the rule of law and show disregard for the sanctity of life.

“The police should never ever shoot to kill… if someone has committed a crime, he should be taken to court,” he said.

In response to the mounting criticism, Murkomen has sought to clarify his position, insisting that his comments were taken out of context. The Interior CS said his statements were in line with Section B(1) of the National Police Service Act, which allows officers to use firearms in self-defence or in the defence of others from imminent threats of death or serious injury.

Odinga also addressed the tragic events of the June 25 protests, during which several lives were lost. Raila condemned the infiltration of what was otherwise peaceful protests by Gen Zs by criminal elements who looted and destroyed properties. The former premier expressed condolences to the families of those who died.

“We witnessed a lot of bloodshed… there were criminals who came out to do deliberate destruction of property,” he said.

He further called for national dialogue, urging both citizens and leaders to engage in meaningful conversations to chart a united path for the country.