Flashy Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen has warned that any public servant who insults President William Ruto or takes part in politics will lose their job.
Speaking at the Jukwaa la Usalama forum in Narok on August 11, Murkomen said chiefs, assistant chiefs, police officers, and other government workers must stay neutral.
“No chief, assistant chief, or police officer will be found speaking against the government of the day. It is illegal. It is unconstitutional,” Murkomen said. “If a public servant insults the President and still expects to serve in government, that officer should be fired immediately.”
Murkomen said the rule applies to all governments, not just Ruto’s. He added that while every Kenyan has the right to vote, public servants must not join campaigns or show political bias while on duty.
The warning comes after several officers openly criticised the government. These include police officer and Mugithi singer Samidoh, who sang anti-government slogans, and former National Intelligence Service (NIS) officer Patrick Osoi, who started a movement called Fighting Brutality and Impunity (FBI) after deadly protests on June 25, 2024.
The group is calling for justice for victims of police violence, including those killed or hurt during the protests.
Murkomen’s remarks echo earlier comments by Defence CS Aden Duale, who stressed that leadership requires respect for those in authority.
By Vivian K.