Murkomen urges politicians to keep churches free from violence

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has warned politicians against introducing violence and disruption into places of worship, emphasising that the government will take legal action against anyone found instigating chaos in churches or public gatherings.

Murkomen called for a politics rooted in peace, respect, and development, rather than insults, intimidation, or the mobilisation of violent groups.

“We want politics of peace, politics of love, and politics of development,” he said.

He added that the government cannot tolerate acts of violence in churches.

“What we witnessed recently in Othaya is unacceptable and must not be repeated,” Murkomen stated.

The Cabinet Secretary said he had instructed the regional commissioner and security teams to take decisive legal action to prevent such incidents.

“I have told the security teams that they must take legal action to ensure this kind of behaviour is stopped and ended completely,” he said.

Murkomen emphasised that political competition should focus on presenting policies and ideas to the public, noting that voters ultimately decide based on which leaders improve their lives.

“Let our opponents continue doing their politics peacefully and sell their policies. In the end, it is the citizens who will choose the policies that benefit their lives,” he said.

He also cautioned politicians against hiring youths or others to cause disruptions, particularly in churches, stressing that the law applies equally to everyone regardless of political affiliation.

“I am speaking as the Cabinet Secretary for Security. If anyone is found bringing violence to a church or any political meeting, action will be taken, regardless of political side,” he said.

“Cheap politics of stone-throwing and fistfights must come to an end,” Murkomen added.

The CS said he supports churches and citizens in promoting respectful and peaceful political engagement.

“Our politics must change. It must be politics of peace and love,” he said, stressing that insults and abusive language do not advance political agendas.

Murkomen noted that President William Ruto campaigned in the last election based on policies and intends to seek a second term on his track record, rather than through violence or insults.

“When the President sought votes, he did so with policies. We want to govern through policies, and when the time comes, we will seek a second term through policies and our performance,” he said.

The remarks were made on Wednesday in Kiawakara, Kirinyaga Central Sub-County, during the commissioning of the Assistant County Commissioner’s Office for Inoi Division and the unveiling of national identity card issuance and civil registration services.

Murkomen’s comments come in the wake of last Sunday’s disruption at Witima ACK Church, where a service attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was interrupted after unknown individuals entered the church.

Teargas canisters were reportedly deployed, forcing congregants to flee, and several vehicles were damaged.

The incident drew widespread condemnation from religious leaders and political figures, who called for churches to remain neutral spaces free from political intimidation and violence.