Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has launched a sharp attack on the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and its president, Faith Odhiambo. He accused them of defending individuals facing terrorism charges.
Murkomen spoke amid growing backlash over the government’s response to recent protests. He claimed LSK is siding with “criminal elements” instead of supporting victims of looting and destruction.
“They are on the wrong side of history,” he said. “They care more about bail for suspects than justice for affected citizens.”
Murkomen warned against pressuring courts into granting lenient bail. “LSK should not focus its energy on securing easy bonds for terrorists,” he said.
He urged legal experts to interpret the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) with clarity and responsibility.
The government has used POTA to charge some protesters. This move has triggered outrage from civil society, lawyers, and political leaders.
Critics say the charges are extreme. They argue the government wants to silence public dissent.
Legal action
Murkomen defended the decision, saying authorities possess solid evidence linking suspects to acts of terror during protests. “We will use CCTV footage and communication records,” he added, warning that politicians who incite unrest will face restrictions and legal action.
The government enacted POTA in 2012 to detect, prevent, and punish terrorism. The law also criminalizes anyone who aids terror suspects, including those who forge documents, and gives the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) broad enforcement powers.
However, LSK President Faith Odhiambo firmly rejected the government’s approach. She argued that authorities cannot label protesters as terrorists without clear and provable intent.
“There must be undeniable evidence of terrorist motives,” said Odhiambo, urging investigators to follow due process.
Murkomen’s remarks came after public outrage over President Ruto’s recent “shoot on the leg” directive. MP Nelson Koech also renewed calls for a return to “shoot to kill” orders—moves that human rights groups condemned as dangerous and repressive.
Chebet and Kipyegon lead team Kenya
CS Wandayi promises fuel price cut soon
