CS Kipchumba Murkomen says all police units answer to Inspector-General

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has dismissed claims that some police units operate outside the command of Inspector-General Douglas Kanja.

He spoke as concern grows over alleged abductions and enforced disappearances in Kenya. The latest reported case involved Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich, who was allegedly taken by armed men near Nakuru and later found in Masinga, more than 200 kilometres away.

Footage from a dashboard camera showed masked men forcing Kiprotich out of his vehicle. CS Murkomen said the National Police Service has no units operating outside the authority of the Inspector-General. “Those who are suggesting that there are units in the NPS that operate outside the command of the IG are false propagandists,” he said.

He said the government would protect the independence of the police service from outside influence. “We will continue to support the independence of the NPS from any external interference,” he said.

Human rights groups have continued to raise concerns over alleged abductions and disappearances, particularly since the 2024 anti-government protests.

Human Rights Watch has previously reported allegations that plain-clothes security officers were involved in the abduction and forced disappearance of protesters and social media activists.

Amnesty International Kenya said 19 enforced disappearances and 69 police killings had been recorded in Kenya in 2026, according to Missing Voices Coalition data. It called on the government to investigate the cases and hold those responsible accountable.

CS Murkomen said police reforms were continuing under recommendations by the National Taskforce on Police Reforms led by former Chief Justice David Maraga. “One of the things that have been done is to improve the curriculum. It now includes training on human rights, constitutionalism and the rule of law,” he said.

He said reforms also include improved equipment, the use of technology, better welfare, medical care, police housing and higher salaries. “We are focusing more on mental health, making sure medical facilities and insurance cover are improved, and also their basic salary has increased significantly,” he said.

CS Murkomen spoke during the 59th Passing-Out Parade of Administration Police Service recruits at the National Police College in Embakasi.

President William Ruto, who attended the event, said the reforms were being implemented for the public good. “This entire reform programme is undertaken in the public interest and financed with public resources,” President Ruto said.

The President asked the new officers to uphold the law with restraint and accountability while respecting the rights and dignity of citizens.