Murkomen Breaks Silence on Standard Group Editor Abduction, Orders IG Kanja

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has broken silence on the abduction of Standard Group editor Alex Kiprotich, describing the incident as shameful and barbaric.

Murkomen said whoever was behind the abduction must face legal action, while calling for swift investigations to establish what happened and identify those responsible.

“This is a shameful act. It is barbaric, and whoever carried out such an act must face legal action,” Murkomen said.

His remarks came as concern continued to grow over the safety of journalists following Kiprotich’s reported abduction.

He commended the Inspector General of Police for directing that investigations into the incident be conducted swiftly, saying the circumstances surrounding the incident must be established.

“We will do everything possible to ensure that a proper investigation is carried out. Beyond the investigation, anyone found to have been involved must face the full force of the law,” he said.

The Interior CS said the government would support efforts to establish who was responsible, stressing that those found culpable should be subjected to legal action.

Murkomen Defends Role of Journalists

Murkomen also used the opportunity to reassure journalists that the government recognises the important role played by the media in the country.

He said his experience working with journalists had given him an appreciation of their contribution to public discourse and accountability.

“I want to assure all journalists that I am a stakeholder in the media fraternity. I have benefited greatly from working with journalists, and I understand the important work they do,” Murkomen said.

According to the CS, journalists play a critical role in holding the government to account while also helping communicate important information to the public.

“Many journalists do a commendable job by holding the government to account in a responsible manner, while also helping us communicate and disseminate information that we want to reach the public,” he said.

Also Read: NPS Breaks Silence on Standard Group Editor’s Abduction as IG Kanja Orders Probe

His comments come at a time when questions over the safety of journalists have increasingly featured in public debate, particularly as the country moves closer to an election period.

Murkomen said journalists should be able to perform their duties without intimidation or fear, regardless of the nature of their reporting.

Call for More Security Ahead of Elections

Murkomen called on the Inspector General of Police to ensure journalists receive adequate security as they cover events during the election period.

He said enhanced protection would allow members of the fourth estate to carry out their work without unnecessary fear or anxiety.

“As we head into the election period, journalists should also be given adequate security. We must ensure they have sufficient protection so that they can carry out their work without fear or anxiety,” Murkomen said.

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He maintained that the government would do everything possible to ensure the investigation into Kiprotich’s abduction is properly conducted.

Murkomen further reiterated that anyone found to have participated in the incident should face the full force of the law.

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