Gachagua Calls for Murkomen’s Sacking Over Alleged ‘Killer Squad’ Claims

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration by alleging that a new special police unit is being trained in Moyale for unlawful operations against civilians.

Speaking during a public address, Gachagua claimed the alleged unit was being prepared to carry out extrajudicial activities, an assertion that has sparked fresh political debate over the country’s security operations.

According to Gachagua, the alleged squad is undergoing training in Moyale, Marsabit County, and is intended to replace security units that have previously been accused by human rights organizations of using excessive force during public demonstrations.

He claimed the unit’s objective would be to intimidate and suppress Kenyans who exercise their constitutional right to protest against the government.

The former Deputy President did not publicly provide evidence to support the allegations but insisted that the government should immediately disclose the nature of the training taking place in Moyale.

He argued that Kenyans deserve transparency regarding the activities of security agencies, especially at a time when concerns over police conduct remain a subject of national discussion.

Gachagua also called on President William Ruto to take immediate action by dismissing Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.

He accused the Interior Ministry of failing to provide adequate oversight of security agencies and claimed the ministry should be held accountable for any actions that undermine the rule of law or violate citizens’ constitutional rights.

He maintained that the Ministry of Interior has a responsibility to ensure police officers operate professionally and within the limits of the Constitution.

According to Gachagua, restoring public confidence in law enforcement requires accountability, transparency, and respect for human rights regardless of political differences.

The allegations come against the backdrop of heightened political tensions following recent anti-government demonstrations in different parts of the country.

Opposition leaders have repeatedly accused security agencies of using excessive force during the protests, while several human rights organizations have raised concerns over reports of injuries, deaths, and enforced disappearances linked to the demonstrations.

The government has consistently defended the conduct of the National Police Service, maintaining that officers are deployed solely to protect lives, maintain law and order, and safeguard public property during demonstrations.

Government officials have repeatedly denied accusations that security agencies are involved in unlawful killings or politically motivated operations.

Murkomen urged independent institutions, including Parliament and constitutional oversight bodies, to investigate his claims and establish whether any specialized police training is taking place for purposes inconsistent with the law.

He said any credible allegations involving security agencies should be subjected to independent scrutiny to protect the integrity of the country’s institutions.

Political analysts say the former Deputy President’s latest remarks are likely to further heighten political tensions as the country moves closer to the 2027 General Election.

Security, governance, and human rights have increasingly become central issues in the political contest between the government and opposition leaders.

As of the time of publication, neither the Ministry of Interior nor the National Police Service had issued an official response to Gachagua’s allegations.

The claims have also not been independently verified, and no publicly available evidence has been presented to substantiate the existence of the alleged police unit.

The debate is expected to continue in the coming days as leaders from both sides of the political divide weigh in on the allegations, with calls likely to grow for transparency and accountability in the management of Kenya’s security agencies.