Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen came under intense scrutiny in Parliament on Wednesday, April 22, after Members of the National Assembly accused him of failing to take clear responsibility in the fight against criminal gangs linked to political activity.
Appearing before MPs to respond to questions on rising insecurity, Murkomen drew criticism for what legislators described as broad and unsubstantiated accusations directed at various institutions.
He suggested that some lawmakers were acting as “war lords,” pointed to governors as possible sponsors of criminal groups, and accused the Judiciary of leniency in handling gang-related cases.
However, MPs noted that the Cabinet Secretary did not provide names of suspects, identify alleged ringleaders, or present clear evidence of enforcement action against organised groups blamed for insecurity in parts of the country.
The approach was sharply questioned by legislators who said the government was aware of those allegedly financing criminal gangs but had failed to act decisively.
Mt Elgon MP Fred Kapondi challenged Murkomen to move beyond general statements and expose those behind the groups.
“It is very clear that you have all the tools and what remains is implementation. For instance, you know those that are funding the goons. By not flagging their names, you are perpetuating the problem,” Kapondi said.
Teso North MP Oku Kaunya warned that continued inaction could deepen insecurity, particularly as political temperatures begin to rise ahead of the next general election.
He cautioned that failure by state institutions to act firmly could create space for armed or organised groups to influence political processes.
“When formal institutions fail to act, gangs take over. Politicians then organise groups for protection when they feel vulnerable,” Kaunya said.
The session highlighted growing concern among legislators over what they describe as the entrenchment of politically linked gangs used for intimidation and disruption.
Parliamentarians are now calling for targeted enforcement, arrests, and public disclosure of individuals allegedly financing or coordinating criminal networks, arguing that vague statements from security officials are no longer sufficient in addressing the problem.