Gachagua Launches Scathing Attack on Murkomen After Ruto Security Breach in Kilifi

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sharply criticized Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, blaming him for what he described as serious failures in the country's security management following the recent breach of President William Ruto’s security during a public rally in Kilifi County.

Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, Gachagua accused Murkomen of lacking the experience and competence required to oversee Kenya’s security docket at a time when national security challenges are attracting increased public attention.

The former Deputy President claimed that concerns over Murkomen’s leadership extend beyond the political arena and are allegedly shared by individuals within the security establishment. 

According to Gachagua, senior officers have privately questioned the Interior CS’s ability to effectively handle sensitive security matters and respond to emerging threats facing the country.

His remarks came in the aftermath of a security scare in Ganze, Kilifi County, where a young man managed to get dangerously close to President Ruto during a public event before security officers intervened. 

The incident immediately raised questions about the effectiveness of the Presidential Escort Unit and triggered an internal review of presidential security protocols.

Following the breach, senior police commanders announced major changes within the President’s security team. Several officers were redeployed while new commanders were appointed to strengthen protection measures around the Head of State.

Authorities defended the reshuffle, arguing that it was necessary to address weaknesses exposed by recent incidents and improve the overall efficiency of presidential security operations.

Gachagua, however, maintained that the responsibility ultimately rests with the leadership of the Interior Ministry, which oversees critical national security institutions. 

He argued that repeated security lapses involving the President point to broader administrative failures that require urgent attention.

Despite his criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration, Gachagua emphasized that the President’s safety should never become a partisan issue. 

He warned that any harm to the Head of State could have serious consequences for the country’s political stability.

“We want William Ruto out of office through the ballot, not through any other means,” Gachagua stated, insisting that political competition must remain peaceful and democratic.

He further noted that the office of the President represents a key pillar of national unity and constitutional order regardless of who occupies it. 

According to him, even leaders facing strong public opposition deserve maximum protection because any security failure at the highest level of government could trigger uncertainty and unrest.

Drawing lessons from past political crises in Africa, Gachagua cautioned against complacency in matters involving presidential security. 

He argued that Kenya cannot afford to gamble with the stability of its institutions as the country gradually moves toward the 2027 General Election.

The remarks have intensified the ongoing political confrontation between Gachagua and key figures within President Ruto’s administration. 

Since his fallout with the government, the former Deputy President has emerged as one of the administration’s most vocal critics, frequently challenging its leadership decisions and policy direction.