The government has warned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of arrest if he “continues to incite Kenyans”. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said Gachagua was not above the law.

“There are people threatening us. They think they are above the law (and) cannot be arrested and that they cannot be jailed,” Murkomen cautioned. He added: “I am going to tell you under our watch this country is not going to condone anybody who wants to burn this nation.

We are going to do everything under the sun to make sure that for the period we serve this nation we are going to make this country safe.” He said the government wants to hand over a peaceful and stable country when it leaves power.

He urged Kenyans not to be cowed by leaders making inflammatory statements.

Incitement

Speaking at Nuru Africa Inland Church in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, Murkomen said the Government will deal firmly with leaders engaging in incitement, without regard to their political stature or affiliation.

The CS directed county security teams to crack down on politicians engaging in goonism, violence and ethnic division. “We are committed to ensuring a peaceful and secure nation for all and will not be threatened by anyone thinking we will spare them because of their position,” he said. He went on: “As a leader, you are elected alone.

Why move around with goons of up to 50 disturbing the peace of others including in funerals?

The county has recently come under the spotlight due to a surge in violence and gangrelated activities, allegedly fueled by various political leaders. These incidents have led to the disruption of several funeral ceremonies and other public events, raising concerns among residents and authorities.

Murkomen spoke after outrage greeted Gachagua’s warning of a repeat of 2007 chaos in 2027 if the polls are rigged.

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has also been accused of fanning violence after he led protests over the leasing of Nzoia Sugar Company last week. On May 18,2025, the Interior CS reiterated the government’s firm stance on maintaining peace and promoting respectful political engagement.

“We want to embrace the politics of decency, where everyone can speak freely and return to their families without fear of harm from hired goons,” the CS stated. He issued a stern warning to national leaders promoting ethnic division, emphasising that security agencies will not hesitate to take decisive action.

“There are those threatening our peace, thinking they are untouchable—thinking they are above the law because of their former senior positions in government,” he said. “Under my watch, we will not condone anyone who seeks to burn down our nation. We will do everything under the sun to keep our country safe.” Added the CS.

The CS was accompanied by Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang, along with local religious and political leaders who echoed his sentiments.