Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen on Sunday defended top security bosses over their remarks on hateful messages directed at elected leaders including the President.
Murkomen told off those who have criticised the Chief of Defences Forces (CDF) Gen Charles Kahariri and Director General of the National Intelligence Services Noordin Haji over their remarks on 'Ruto Must Go' slogan, saying they were talking from a point of information.
The two spoke during the inaugural public lecture on “Kenya’s evolving security landscape” held at National Intelligence and Research University (NIRU).
"Even as people exercise their freedom, they must do so within certain limits...That must go, must be done according to the constitution."
Kahariri spoke strongly about emerging threats to democracy in the name of exercising freedom of speech, saying the military will not stand by and allow anarchy to prevail.
"We have a responsibility, we took an oath to defend the constitution, to defend the republic." he said, while affirming that the military will always remain apolitical.
The remarks by the army General elicited varied reactions with some advising him to focus on security issues.
Murkomen echoed his sentiments saying there are laid down legal provisions to exercise constitutional rights, including removal of elected leaders from office.
"They are answering the CDF and the NIS DG; those two gentlemen are talking from a point of information. They are warning you, they are warning your future and your country," the CS said as he commented on the matter that has elicited mixed reactions following the remarks made by the security chiefs at a public lecturer recently.
He was speaking at a church service and celebration of the 8th anniversary of AIC Makueni, North Imenti in Meru county.
Murkomen also faulted politicians and social media activists, saying their messages border on security.
"The future of a country needs order. Otherwise there is a reason why this country is in peace. We could be in the same situation with our neighbours."
The CS stressed that the constitution is very particular on ways to remove elected leaders from office; through impeachment or right to recall.
"There is also ways to prosecute those who commit crime and arrested," the CS said.
Murkomen also rallied elected and religious leaders to support government initiatives in the fight against drug abuse and mental health challenges among the youth.
He told the National Administration Officers, especially the chiefs, to be vigilant in the sale of illegal brews in the villages.
"We are going to be very firm in dealing with those who condone such vices. It's the only way to protect our youth," the CS said, urging locals to work closely with the NGAOs to address the menace.
"We are encouraging rebellion instead of guiding the future generation to work in line with the Lord,” he said.
Murkomen also weighed in on the gangs terrorising people in the Coast region.
The CS lauded the arrest of 120 'panga boys' gang members and promised to deal with the gangs to ensure the locals are safe, warning those involved that their days are numbered.
"The government is dismantling organised criminal gangs in the country,” he assured.
The CS put on notice those practising traditional practices that are in conflict with the law.
While making reference to the Wajir and Kisii cases, he vowed to deal with the perpetrators, accordingly.
A 17-year-old girl was Killed in Wajir for allegedly refusing to marry an old man while in Nyamira, a woman was assaulted for refusing to bid farewell to her late ex-husband by throwing soil into his grave.
The CS stressed on the importance of Operation Maliza Uhalifu command base in Kirimon, Laikipia county, which is aimed at dealing with banditry and emerging trends of crime.
Further, he disclosed that the government is in the process to actualise all gazetted administrative units.
Leaders present in church included Governor Isaac Mutuma, MPs Rahim Dawood (North Imenti), Mpruru Aburi (Tigania East) Moses Kirima ( Cebtral Imenti), Shadrack Mwiti (South Imenti) Muthoni Ikiara (nominated) and MCAs and county officials.
