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鈥檚 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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