Kenya’s security chiefs are under pressure as violence rises. Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen and Police IG Douglas Kanja have been called by parliament to explain the increase in political violence and bandit attacks, and what they plan to do about it.

Two top security officials will appear before Parliament on April 21 over rising political violence in the country.

The move follows recent unrest in Kikuyu town, which led to a public clash between Kimani Ichung’wah and opposition leaders.

The speaker Moses Wetang’ula has asked affected MPs to present their security concerns at the meeting.

Committee Chairman Gabriel Tongoyo says lawmakers will question the government on how it plans to handle the situation, and he added that security agencies are already taking action.

The officials will also address ongoing bandit attacks in pastoral areas.

In a parallel development, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja have also been directed to appear before the Senate Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Relations.

Fatuma Dullo, the Chairperson of the Senate Committee, announced that both officials would be required to appear individually before her committee next Thursday.

Chairperson Dullo expressed strong disapproval of what she described as an alarming and emerging pattern of targeted, politically motivated attacks against various leaders across the country.

She emphasized unequivocally that this growing trend is unacceptable and must be decisively halted.

The dual summons from both the National Assembly and the Senate underscore the legislative branch's unwavering commitment to holding the executive arm of government accountable for maintaining law and order, and for ensuring the safety and security of all Kenyan citizens amidst rising political tensions and criminal activities.