Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has condemned the alleged abduction of Standard Group editor Alex Kiprotich, describing the incident as shameful and unacceptable.
Speaking on Thursday, September 3, Murkomen called on security agencies to move quickly and establish what happened to the journalist and who was responsible.
He said anyone found to have been involved should face legal action.
Murkomen welcomed the decision by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to order investigations into the incident, saying the probe should be completed quickly.
The Interior CS also defended the role of journalists in holding the government accountable.
He said journalists play an important role in informing Kenyans and examining the actions of public officials and government institutions.
Murkomen said criticism from journalists should never be used as a reason to deny them security or protection.
He acknowledged that he has previously been criticised by members of the media but said personal disagreements should not affect how journalists are treated.
According to Murkomen, any disagreement between a government official and a journalist should be handled through lawful channels, including the courts, rather than intimidation or violence.
He further warned against anyone using political or government influence to target journalists or other Kenyans.
The CS assured journalists that the government would support efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding Kiprotich’s disappearance.
He said those found responsible would face strong legal action.
Murkomen also urged the police to increase the protection of journalists as Kenya approaches a politically active period ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The alleged abduction of Kiprotich has raised concerns over the safety of journalists and press freedom in the country.
The National Police Service has already ordered investigations into the incident, with its Anti-Abduction Unit handling the case.
The investigation is expected to establish what happened and identify those responsible.
