Kenya's top legal organization harshly criticized Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen after he told police to shoot people who threaten officers or attack police stations. The Law Society of Kenya called his order illegal and against the constitution. Legal experts warned police officers not to follow these instructions. The group said Murkomen lacks the power to give such commands. Faith Odhiambo leads the organization and spoke out against the directive.
The lawyers pointed out that Kenya's constitution protects the right to life. Only specific laws can limit this basic right under certain conditions. Odhiambo said any killings based on Murkomen's order would be serious crimes. She warned that officers who use too much force will face prosecution. The legal group asked Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja to stop officers from following illegal orders.
Murkomen made his controversial statement on Thursday about shooting people who approach police stations with criminal plans. He aimed the directive at violent attackers who try to steal guns from police facilities. The cabinet secretary later explained his words applied only to criminals robbing police stations or attacking officers. He said the goal was protecting police and their buildings from dangerous criminals.
Human rights groups criticized the shoot-to-kill order despite Murkomen's explanation. Legal experts worry about potential abuse and more police violence. The controversy continues as critics question whether such extreme measures are necessary. Many fear innocent people could be harmed under broad police powers.
The lawyers pointed out that Kenya's constitution protects the right to life. Only specific laws can limit this basic right under certain conditions. Odhiambo said any killings based on Murkomen's order would be serious crimes. She warned that officers who use too much force will face prosecution. The legal group asked Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja to stop officers from following illegal orders.
Murkomen made his controversial statement on Thursday about shooting people who approach police stations with criminal plans. He aimed the directive at violent attackers who try to steal guns from police facilities. The cabinet secretary later explained his words applied only to criminals robbing police stations or attacking officers. He said the goal was protecting police and their buildings from dangerous criminals.
Human rights groups criticized the shoot-to-kill order despite Murkomen's explanation. Legal experts worry about potential abuse and more police violence. The controversy continues as critics question whether such extreme measures are necessary. Many fear innocent people could be harmed under broad police powers.
