Murkomen to CJ Koome: 'You are safe'

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has come out to clarify that the government had no ill motive against Chief Justice Martha Koome.

CS Murkomen said the decision to withdraw some of the security personnel of the CJ was based solely on their promotion and the need for further training.

He dismissed any suggestions that the move was part of a scheme against the Chief Justice.

Speaking in Diani on Friday during the launch of the National Government Administration Police Unit (NGAP), CS Murkomen said the issue had been blown out of proportion.

“The Chief Justice went too public with the issue. Of the 32 officers assigned to her, only three have been withdrawn, leaving her with 29 officers,” Mr Murkomen explained. Adding that it was a minor matter that did not deserve the media attention it has received.

"When officers are promoted, they need to undergo training. Unfortunately, the Chief Justice went too public about this issue. However, I assured her that the matter would be resolved,” he stated.

Mr Murkomen revealed that he had spoken with the Chief Justice and Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja to clarify the situation, urging cooperation among public offices.

The controversy began when CJ Koome raised alarm over the withdrawal of some of her security personnel, including officers from the Judicial Police Unit.

Mr Murkomen blamed the CJ for not following the protocol in addressing the issue.

"I saw the letter that was supposed to be mine on news today.This has made the public that they might be a scheme against the CJ but i want to assure you that there is no ill motive.I have a good relationship with the CJ," said the CS.

Earlier CJ Koome, in a protest letter to Mr Murkomen and IG Kanja, expressed her dismay over the reduction in security personnel. 

While she did not specify the exact number of withdrawn officers, the Kenya Magistrates and Judges Association (KMJA) reported that up to 23 officers under the Judiciary Police Unit were affected.

“I call upon the CJ to allow us to work together as a team,” Mr Murkomen said, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the executive and the judiciary. 

“Promoting junior officers is beneficial for the country and ensures their morale remains high. This decision was made purely based on officer promotions and not with any ill motive.”

The CS further assured the public that the safety of the Chief Justice and all members of the judiciary remains a priority for the government.

“The CJ remains adequately protected with about 29 officers, and her safety, as well as that of other judges, is guaranteed,” Mr Murkomen affirmed.