Katiba Institute challenges Kipchumba Murkomen's 'use of force' directive in court
via Tuko5 min read
The Katiba Institute has filed a petition in court challenging Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen’s directive on the use of force and firearms by police officers. The directive, issued to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja on July 18, 2025, caused public outcry during demonstrations. The institute argues that the CS acted outside his mandate and that the directive, Policy Directive No. 1 of 2025, is unconstitutional, lacking a legal foundation, and contravenes several constitutional provisions. Kevin Walume of Katiba Institute states that the directive undermines Schedules 6A and 6B of the National Police Service Act, which require regulations developed in consultation with the Inspector General and stakeholders. The Katiba Institute is asking the court to declare the directive null and void and to order the Cabinet Secretary and the Inspector General of Police to create proper rules on the lawful use of force and firearms within 60 days. The court has directed parties to file responses and submissions and will reconvene on May 19, 2026, for further directions. Last year, Murkomen had ordered police to shoot at protestors entering police stations but later retracted, stating that no law permits shooting unarmed civilians.
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The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall advisory for several counties, with intensified rainfall expected to peak between May 10 and May 13. The advisory covers parts of Nairobi, Rift Valley, Western Kenya, Lake Victoria Basin, and Northwestern regions. Counties such as Migori, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kisii, Kericho, Bomet, Kiambu, Embu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Laikipia, Tharaka-Nithi, Meru, Narok, Nairobi, Turkana, Samburu, Kajiado, and Machakos are likely to be affected. Residents in areas near rivers, flood-prone zones, and hilly regions, especially around the Aberdare ranges and Mt Kenya, are advised to remain alert due to potential flash floods, poor visibility, and landslides. The department also cautioned against sheltering under trees or near grilled windows during thunderstorms. Although the intensity is expected to reduce from May 14, rains are likely to continue in several parts of the country. Kenya Met has reported improved forecast accuracy, attributing it to enhanced communication and early warning dissemination to institutions like The Presidency, Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, and the Kenya Red Cross, to improve disaster preparedness and response.
The Kenyatta family estate in Ichaweri, Gatundu South, Kiambu county, serves as a private and historically significant residence for Kenya's founding family. Far from State House, Nairobi, the estate is a personal sanctuary with robust protection. While public access is limited, accounts from visitors and historical records offer glimpses into the compound. The estate's origins trace back to Kenya's founding president, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, with the original house reportedly built or rebuilt by colonial authorities upon his release from detention. Over decades, the family expanded the property into a multi-house compound with high perimeter walls, electric fencing, and guarded gates. Inside, descriptions mention manicured lawns and mature trees. A notable feature is the St. John the Baptist Chapel, established by former first lady Mama Ngina Kenyatta in tribute to Jomo. Consecrated in December 2023 by Archbishop Philip Anyolo, the chapel is built on the site of a 1971 structure commissioned by Jomo Kenyatta and is known for its elegant woodwork and stained-glass windows. Security remains paramount, with private personnel and state support ensuring privacy. Mama Ngina receives state-provided security as part of retirement benefits, though this protection can be reduced or withdrawn during political disputes.
Evanson Njenga, the Kenyan businessman and founder of Central Farmers Garage CFG Ltd, an Isuzu dealer, has died at the age of 90. Njenga passed away on April 28 while receiving treatment at The Nairobi Hospital. He established CFG Ltd in 1982 in Kitale, Trans Nzoia county, and grew it into a prominent body builder for buses across Kenya, with a significant presence in Nairobi, Bungoma, and Lodwar. The company is an appointed Isuzu East Africa Limited dealer, providing sales, genuine parts, mechanical services, and body building tailored for Kenyan conditions. Friends, colleagues, and the CFG fraternity have expressed deep condolences, remembering Njenga as a man of wisdom, humility, and impactful leadership. Friends and family are meeting at his Tigoni Residence in Limuru, with the burial planned for May 8 at the same location.
Authorities in Homa Bay have launched an investigation into the death of Wickliffe Omondi Dengu, a 24-year-old man who died while in police custody at Ngegu Police Station in Rangwe Sub-County. Dengu was arrested on Sunday, May 3, 2026, on suspicion of stock theft after a stolen cow was recovered with him driving it towards Kendu Bay. He was detained at Ngegu Police Station, and later that evening, at approximately 9:00 p.m., officers discovered he had died in his cell. Preliminary findings suggest he allegedly hanged himself using a string tied to ventilation openings. The incident occurred shortly after his arrest, prompting questions about the circumstances of his death. The matter has been reported to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority IPOA, which has begun an independent investigation, and Dengu's family has been notified.