The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has dismissed claims of an attempt to undermine Chief Justice Martha Koome following reports that her security detail was reduced.
During the launch of the National Government Administration Police Unit, which is responsible for national administration officials, Murkomen clarified that Koome’s security remains unchanged, despite the reassignment of some officers who had been assigned to her.
He explained that the movement of officers was due to promotions and the need for further training, which is a standard procedure within the National Police Service (NPS).
“I empathize with Inspector General Douglas Kanja and the Chief Justice. I saw that the CJ had expressed concerns about the promotion of officers assigned to her and their reassignment for training,” Murkomen told reporters on Friday.
Murkomen emphasized that Koome is one of the most protected public figures, with 32 officers assigned to her, well above the six typically allocated as per the official guidelines.
He noted that only three officers from her security detail were affected by the promotion.
“For the public’s reassurance, even after the reassignment of three officers, the Chief Justice still has 29 officers, including seven police drivers,” he said.
The CS also shared that he had faced similar challenges in the past when officers assigned to him were promoted and had to leave for training, temporarily disrupting their duties.
Murkomen expressed his disappointment that the issue became public, clarifying that he and the IG have no issues with the Chief Justice.
“I’ve had a good relationship with the Chief Justice unless there is an issue on her part. There is no problem between the IG and I,” he said.
He urged for cooperation between the Judiciary and the Executive to resolve such matters without causing unnecessary public concern.
“This issue should not have garnered such media attention. The CJ reached out to me, and I assured her that I would address the matter with the IG,” Murkomen said.
He also expressed frustration at learning of certain details through the media instead of direct communication.
“I thought we had already addressed this. I only saw a letter, which was meant for me, in the news. This is not how such issues should be handled,” he added.
Murkomen reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the welfare of police officers who serve public officials.
“We are dedicated to ensuring the well-being of officers who have worked with us for years. Their promotions reflect well on us and help boost morale,” he said.
He assured both the Chief Justice and the Judiciary of continued support and cooperation.
“I want to reassure the Chief Justice and the public that there is no plot to reduce her security. The National Police Service is committed to protecting the Chief Justice and all judges as required by the Constitution,” he stated.
Murkomen called for unity in addressing administrative issues and emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust in government institutions.
