“It Was an Attempted Coup,” CS Murkomen Defends Security, Blames Organizers for June 25 Chaos

Nairobi, June 27, 2025—Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has condemned the nationwide protests on June 25. He described them as a “well-orchestrated attempt to overthrow the state,” not peaceful demonstrations. 

Speaking from Harambee House, Murkomen accused the organizers of planning a premeditated coup. He claimed they targeted police stations, government offices, and the homes of pro-government officials using hired thugs and disguised attackers. 

Chaos, Looting, and Targeted Violence 

Murkomen detailed the widespread destruction: 

- Nine police stations were attacked, five of which were burned. 

- 300 police officers and 100 civilians were injured in the clashes. 

- 88 police vehicles, 27 government vehicles, and 65 private cars were destroyed. 

- Homes and businesses of MPs, including Kimani Ichung’wah, Kimani Kuria, and Eric Wamumbi, were vandalized. 

- Five firearms were stolen from Dagoretti Police Post; ambulances were reportedly used to carry protestors. 

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Murkomen emphasized that businesses worth billions of shillings were looted or burned and classified the events as acts of political terrorism, not lawful dissent. 

Police Praised for Foiling a Coup 

Murkomen praised the National Police Service and DCI for their response during the unrest: “Police foiled an attempted coup. There was no peaceful demonstration; it was terrorism disguised as dissent. Our security agencies showed remarkable restraint amid extreme provocation.” 

He also promised full support for officers, clearly stating that no police officer committed any excess, rejecting media and international criticism. 

Devil in the Detail: Funding, Financing, Mobilization 

Murkomen claimed the protestors were funded with cash distributed via vehicles, including ambulances. They were clearly prepared for targeted attacks on state institutions. 

He warned media houses and foreign actors, accusing them of escalating tensions, and threatened sanctions. This could include shutting down outlets seen as mobilizing against the government. 

Investigation and Prosecution: “We Will Come for You” 

He confirmed that several arrests have been made and vowed a thorough judicial process: “We have enough evidence to arrest organizers and financiers. Make no mistake, we will come for you. No one will be spared, no matter their political or financial status.” 

Murkomen urged the Judiciary to resist lenient bail terms that may allow for future unrest. 

State Asserts Control, Risks Further Polarization 

Murkomen’s strong message shows a government focused on a security-first policy. He framed the protests as threats to the regime rather than civic expression. His statements raise important questions: 

- Will security-focused tactics restore order or deepen mistrust? 

- Can law and justice coexist with constitutional rights to assemble? 

- How will Kenya reconcile youth activism with protections against abuse? 

As investigations continue, the nation's ability to uphold both security and democratic freedoms faces a fresh test.