Lilian Nyiva
NAIROBI, Kenya – The High Court has granted Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen 14 days to file responses and affidavits in three separate petitions seeking his removal from office over remarks he allegedly made advocating a "shoot-to-kill" approach against criminal suspects.
The petitions, filed by various individuals and civil society groups, challenge comments attributed to Murkomen last year, arguing that the remarks violated constitutional principles, human rights protections, and the rule of law.
During proceedings, the court directed the Interior CS to formally respond to the allegations raised by the petitioners before the matters can proceed to substantive hearing. The petitions have been consolidated for case management purposes, with the court expected to give further directions after receiving the responses.
Alleged Remarks at Centre of Dispute
The petitions stem from statements reportedly made by Murkomen while addressing security matters. The petitioners contend that the remarks amounted to an endorsement of extrajudicial actions by law enforcement officers and were inconsistent with constitutional provisions governing the use of force.
According to the petitioners, public officials entrusted with national security responsibilities are required to uphold and promote constitutional rights, including the right to life and fair trial.
Petitioners Seek Removal from Office
Among the remedies sought, the petitioners want the court to declare that Murkomen violated the Constitution and is therefore unfit to continue serving as Cabinet Secretary.
They argue that the alleged remarks undermined public confidence in the country's commitment to human rights and lawful policing.
Government Yet to File Response
Murkomen has not yet formally responded to the petitions in court. The 14-day period granted by the High Court will allow him to present his defence and file supporting affidavits addressing the claims raised against him.
The Attorney General and other government agencies named in the petitions are also expected to participate in the proceedings.
Case to Proceed After Responses
The court is expected to set a hearing date after all parties have filed their responses. At that stage, judges will consider the constitutional and legal issues raised before determining whether the petitions have merit.
The outcome of the case could have significant implications for public discourse on security operations, accountability of public officials, and the limits of official statements concerning law enforcement conduct in Kenya.
