Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has ordered a thorough investigation into allegations of violence and disruption reported during the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, stating that anyone found responsible should face arrest and prosecution regardless of their position or affiliation.
Speaking about the security situation during the by-election, Murkomen said the government had taken adequate measures to ensure a peaceful voting process. He noted that the Inspector General of Police had deployed enough security officers to maintain order and protect voters, election officials, and other participants throughout the exercise.
However, Murkomen acknowledged concerns raised over reports that some individuals allegedly caused chaos during the election. He said security agencies must establish who was involved, how the incidents occurred, and whether there were people behind the alleged disruptions. According to the Interior CS, accountability should apply equally to all those found responsible.
He emphasized that investigations should not be influenced by the status or connections of any suspect. Murkomen said that even if individuals involved were linked to security agencies or had been deployed by authorities, they should still face the law if investigations establish wrongdoing.
The CS also reaffirmed the government’s position against political violence, saying elections should be conducted in a peaceful environment where citizens are free to exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation. He maintained that violence has no place in the country’s electoral process and that authorities would not tolerate actions that undermine peace and stability.
Murkomen’s remarks come at a time when the conduct of the Ol Kalou by-election has attracted public attention following reports of unrest and claims that unidentified groups interfered with the exercise. The incidents have led to growing calls from various quarters for investigations and greater accountability.
Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has made allegations regarding those he believes were behind the disturbances witnessed during the mini-poll. Speaking during a press briefing, Gachagua accused several leaders from the Mt Kenya region of playing a role in the events that unfolded during the by-election.
The former Deputy President specifically named Nominated Senator Sabina Chege, Kiambaa MP John Njuguna Kawanjiku, Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi, Murang’a Woman Representative Betty Maina, and Kiambu Woman Representative Anne Wamuratha. He claimed that the leaders had acted under instructions from President William Ruto.
Gachagua further alleged that the lawmakers controlled police squads that were used to cause disruptions during political events, including the Ol Kalou by-election.
His claims have added a political dimension to the debate surrounding the incidents, even as authorities move forward with investigations aimed at establishing the facts behind the reported violence and identifying those responsible.