Murkomen urges stronger Judiciary - Interior alliance

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has called for deeper cooperation between the Judiciary and his ministry.

Murkomen explained that an effective justice system depends on stronger coordination among all state agencies involved in law enforcement, prosecution, and corrections.

Speaking at Safari Park Hotel during the launch of the Administration of Justice in Kenya Annual Report 2024/25 and the Justice Sector Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Framework, Murkomen said Kenya can only achieve lasting peace when security and justice institutions operate in harmony.

He argued that neither laws nor force alone could guarantee stability, stressing the need for balance.

“A nation is not made peaceful by force alone, nor by laws alone, but by the harmony between both. Security without accountability diminishes justice. Justice without security cannot flourish,” he said.

Murkomen noted that the Ministry of Interior holds a central place in the justice chain as it oversees the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service, Probation and Aftercare Services.

It also oversees the National Crimes Research Centre, all of which are principal members of the National Council on the Administration of Justice.

He urged justice sector institutions to adopt a cooperative approach when addressing challenges, saying meaningful reforms require shared responsibility.

“So, when we identify problems, let us approach them as partners. Police reforms must continue to emphasize service, partnership, and professionalism. An efficient police service makes the entire justice sector more efficient,” he stated.

Murkomen outlined how each institution’s work shapes the effectiveness of the next stage in the justice chain.

“When the National Police Service makes an arrest, that is just the beginning. Their investigation becomes the foundation for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the courts," he said.

When a judge delivers a verdict, the Kenya Prisons Service, Probation and Aftercare Services take over to rehabilitate and reintegrate offenders back into society."

The event was attended by Chief Justice Martha Koome, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Gladys Boss, and Attorney General Dorcas Oduor.

Murkomen acknowledged occasional friction among agencies but urged a renewed spirit of unity.

“I know we do not always agree. Sometimes the Ministry questions why certain cases move slowly. Sometimes the courts question police methods. Sometimes correctional services wonder why they do not get enough resources. I want to emphasize that we need to strengthen our partnership.”

He added that quick and well-reasoned judgments contribute to deterring crime and reinforcing public trust, while effective rehabilitation reduces repeat offending.

Murkomen raised concern about what he termed excessively lenient bail terms for repeat or serious offenders.

He warned that such decisions strain public confidence and encourage impunity.

The CS reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fast-tracking justice reforms, especially through digitisation, to improve accessibility and affordability.

He urged justice sector agencies to work closely through court users committees, which he described as essential for strengthening collaboration at the grassroots.