Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has strongly condemned the recent incident involving police officers, journalists, and students during a political fracas in Nakuru County.
Speaking in response to the confrontation that unfolded during the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival, Murkomen termed the events involving students from Butere Girls High School as both “unfortunate and regrettable.”
“It is regrettable, and I apologise. It is not the intention of the government to attack or harm any journalist or citizen,” said the Cabinet Secretary.
Murkomen reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding press freedom and freedom of expression, stating that these rights are protected under the Constitution and must be respected at all times.
He vowed that the government would take firm action against any security officers found to have used excessive force during the incident.
“We will investigate and determine whether the incident was accidental or deliberate—and appropriate action will be taken,” he assured.
The CS further emphasized the importance of separating politics from education, especially in matters involving students.
“We have a duty—as parents and as government—to teach our children the right values and ensure politics does not interfere with education. Matters of education should remain apolitical,” he said.
The incident has drawn widespread criticism from media bodies and civil society organizations, who continue to call for accountability and the protection of journalists across the country.
