Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has acknowledged rising concerns over organised violence in urban areas, following the recent attack at All Saints’ Cathedral in Nairobi, while outlining sweeping reforms aimed at strengthening security in the capital.
Speaking after attending a Sunday service at AIC Plainsview Church in Nairobi, where the congregation marked its Golden Jubilee celebrations, Murkomen said the country remains “generally safe and secure” but warned that coordinated acts of “goonism” continue to undermine public order.
He pointed to the All Saints’ Cathedral incident, where a group of suspected hired goons disrupted a civic forum, as part of a worrying trend of politically influenced disorder.
“Even as the country remains safe and secure, goonism perpetrated by actors across the political divide continues to pose a challenge, as witnessed in the recent unfortunate incident at All Saints Cathedral,” he said.
Murkomen confirmed that several suspects linked to the invasion have already been arrested, with ongoing operations to track down additional individuals believed to have participated in the attack.
He emphasized that those responsible will face prosecution.
“Several suspects have been arrested and our security agencies are pursuing more. We will ensure that those involved are brought to book and held accountable,” he said.
The attack, which unfolded during a post-budget analysis forum at the historic church compound, has since triggered national debate on the safety of public gatherings and the rising influence of organised criminal groups in political and civic spaces.
In response, the Interior Cabinet Secretary announced structural changes in Nairobi’s policing framework, including the establishment of the Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit.
He said the new formation will work alongside existing agencies and incorporate modern surveillance and intelligence systems to improve rapid response to emerging threats.
“We are also redefining Nairobi’s security architecture with the establishment of the Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit and the integration of modern technology into our operations. This will strengthen public order and response to emerging security threats in the city,” Murkomen stated.
Beyond urban security reforms, Murkomen also highlighted plans to formalise community policing by integrating village elders into grassroots governance structures.
Under the proposal, elders will receive a monthly stipend starting in the next financial year in recognition of their role in maintaining local order and dispute resolution.
He also used the occasion to commend the church sector for its long-standing contribution to national development, praising AIC Plainsview Church for 50 years of service.
He noted the role of religious institutions in shaping civic values and supporting socio-economic growth.
Murkomen’s remarks come at a time of heightened scrutiny over security in Nairobi, with authorities under pressure to contain rising incidents of organised disruption targeting public events and institutions.