Kipchumba Murkomen has found himself at the center of public criticism following the chaotic and deadly incident at Kasarani Stadium. The discussion began when social commentator Cyprian Nyakundi questioned the Interior Cabinet Secretary’s priorities after he travelled to India while a major public event was taking place at home.
Nyakundi’s statement, posted on October 16, 2025, expressed disbelief that the CS chose to fly abroad for what appeared to be photo opportunities instead of staying in Kenya to oversee national security arrangements.
His words quickly gained attention after reports confirmed that four young Kenyans lost their lives in the Kasarani tragedy when police used live bullets to disperse the crowd.
The link between poor planning, inadequate crowd control, and leadership decisions has since become a major point of national debate.
A day after his initial post, Nyakundi followed up with an online poll asking Kenyans whether Murkomen should resign and take responsibility for the loss of lives. Thousands participated, with many agreeing that the CS should be held accountable for what they viewed as negligence. Critics argue that his trip to India showed misplaced priorities at a time when the country needed strong coordination and leadership.
They say his absence sent the wrong message about the seriousness of his duties, especially since Interior Ministry oversight is critical during high-attendance national events.
Nyakundi’s criticism of Murkomen is not new. Over the past few months, he has repeatedly challenged the CS on various matters, including how he handled a BBC investigation into human trafficking in Kenya. When Murkomen dismissed the exposé as false, Nyakundi warned that such remarks could embolden criminal networks and discourage victims from speaking out.
Kenya delegation in Kerala India for the remains of Raila Odinga. Photo Courtesy/PCS
He cited the case of a magistrate in Busia who reportedly faced threats after handling a sensitive defilement case, suggesting that public officials needed protection rather than political statements undermining justice.
Earlier in the year, Nyakundi also criticized Murkomen for remarks made during protests, where the CS was accused of encouraging a shoot-to-kill approach. He argued that such comments were reckless and could inflame tensions between citizens and police.
His warnings about growing anger and mistrust between the government and the public were widely shared, with millions viewing related posts and videos. Nyakundi has also highlighted Murkomen’s dismissive exchanges with other leaders, saying they reflect a pattern of arrogance and lack of accountability.
These concerns have built up over time, with online polls and discussions showing increasing dissatisfaction. Many Kenyans feel that the Interior Ministry has failed to address recurring issues of police conduct, public safety, and proper event coordination. The Kasarani incident has become the clearest symbol of that failure.
As Nyakundi put it, leadership means staying present when the country faces sensitive moments, not flying abroad for publicity. His message continues to gain traction among citizens who believe that government officials must answer for avoidable tragedies.
