A senior chief in Kirinyaga County made a deeply emotional plea to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on Monday, urging him to intervene in a five-year-old defilement case involving his son.
The appeal came during Murkomen’s visit to the county as part of the ongoing Jukwaa la Usalama security forum, a platform designed to address security concerns raised by citizens and local leaders.
Speaking in front of a packed hall, the visibly distressed administrator narrated the painful journey his family has endured since the incident occurred in 2020. Despite reporting the matter to authorities, the chief alleged that the case has stagnated due to police inaction and interference.
“I know this is personal, but allow me to voice it,” he began. “My son was defiled in 2020, and I have never gotten the help I need. I have gone to the County Commander’s office several times, but they never help.”
The chief explained that the prolonged lack of justice has taken a significant toll on his family life. His wife left home after the incident, leaving him solely responsible for raising their now 18-year-old son.
“This issue has affected me personally. My son is suffering, and I am a chief. A common mwananchi looks at my situation and wonders: if I can’t get justice and I work for the government, how can I help them?” he asked.
Allegations of Police Cover-Up
The chief further accused police officers from Kianyaga and Kiamutugu stations of shielding the suspect, who he described as a “well-connected individual” in the community.
“I need help. This has affected even my personal life,” he said, adding that the delays and perceived protection of the suspect have eroded his confidence in the system he serves.
CS Murkomen responded immediately, assuring the chief—and the public—that he would personally take up the matter.
“I will take that one personally. That is a very serious issue. I will return to it,” the Interior CS said, before inviting other participants to raise their concerns.
Other Security Issues Raised
Murkomen’s visit to Kirinyaga also touched on several pressing security and social issues, including the fight against illicit brews, bar licensing, and land disputes.
Crackdown on Illicit Alcohol: Murkomen reported that Kirinyaga has improved its ranking to number 35 nationally in combating illicit alcohol and adulterated brews. However, he emphasized that more work remains, particularly in closing bars operating near schools and residential areas.
“More needs to be done to stamp out this menace,” he said.
Land Disputes: The CS acknowledged ongoing land ownership disputes in the county, pledging a coordinated effort with other agencies to find peaceful and legal solutions.
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, who was present during the forum, lauded the initiative, noting that such engagements give citizens a direct voice in shaping local security priorities.
The chief’s public appeal highlights systemic weaknesses in handling sexual violence cases and the perceived impunity of influential suspects. It also underscores the strain faced by public servants when justice systems fail, eroding public trust in governance.
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