MPs plot CS Murkomen impeachment over shoot-to-kill order

Members of Parliament allied to the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) have revealed plans to initiate an impeachment motion against Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, citing his controversial "shoot to kill" directive as grounds for removal from office.

Leading the charge is Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, who made the announcement during a prayer and fundraising event for Akurino faithful held at Embu University grounds on Saturday.

Mukunji accused CS Murkomen of perpetuating extra-judicial killings and enforced disappearances, alleging that such actions have become a hallmark of the Kenya Kwanza administration. He called on Parliament to exercise its oversight role and protect Kenyan lives and freedoms.

“This Parliament must stand firm. The Interior Cabinet Secretary has overstepped his mandate by issuing unconstitutional directives that endanger lives. We cannot sit back and watch,” Mukunji stated.

Despite his bold move, Mukunji admitted the motion faces an uphill battle in Parliament, citing the executive’s far-reaching influence and control over many lawmakers.

“Let’s be honest, Parliament has largely been captured. But we must try,” he added.

Mukurweini MP John Kaguchia threw his weight behind the impeachment calls, saying Murkomen acted outside his legal mandate.

“The CS has no authority to order police to shoot and kill. Such orders violate the Constitution and must be condemned,” Kaguchia said.

The MPs also alleged that the violent scenes witnessed during last Wednesday’s protests were orchestrated by the state to paint the youth as criminals and justify a crackdown.

Murkomen has been under fire over his orders last week in response to massive destruction witnessed during Wednesday’s June 25 anniversary demonstrations by suspected goons paid by unknown people.

The CS told the polie: “Mtu yeyote atakaribia police station piga yeye risasi… Mtu mwenye anaenda kuiba bunduki, abembelezwe?” “Bunduki sio mandazi!”

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, the DCP leader, himself described Murkomen as “a young, excited CS full of himself because of money and power,” accusing him of making illegal and reckless pronouncements that could lead to loss of innocent lives and legal consequences for law enforcement officers.

In response to the mounting criticism, Murkomen has sought to clarify his position, insisting that his comments were taken out of context.

Through a statement on Saturday, 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.