Murkomen calls for speedy probe into abduction of Standard editor, defends media freedom

Murkomen calls for speedy probe into abduction of Standard editor, defenders media freedom

Interior and National Administration CS Kipchumba Murkomen strongly condemned the abduction of a Standard journalist Alex Kiprotich calling for a swift investigation into the incident and the protection of media freedom.

He said he was happy police are already investigating the incident and called for arrest and prosecution of those behind the same.

“It’s embarrassing and barbaric. Whoever is involved must face the full force of the law,” he said.

Murkomen further called on Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to enhance security for journalists as the country approaches the election period.

“I want to ask the IG that as we head into the election period, let’s provide journalists with enough security for them to perform their duties,” he said.

Defending press freedom, the CS praised the media for its role in promoting peace and security in the country and assured journalists of the Government’s commitment to their safety.

“I want to assure journalists that I’m one of your stakeholders. I have benefited from working with you, and I know the good work you are doing,” he noted.
He said there are channels to address grievances on journalists.
“If I have a problem with a journalist, I will go to court,” he added, urging those aggrieved by media coverage to pursue legal channels in addressing their concerns.

Murkomen was speaking at St. Michael’s Secondary School Grounds in Embobut, Elgeyo Marakwet County, during the funeral service of his aunt, Mama Sokomo Chemeitoi Ko Jepkosgei.

Kiprotich was accosted by armed men along the Gilgil–Nakuru Road on Tuesday night and later found dumped near Masinga Dam on Wednesday morning.

The Media Owners Association of Kenya (MOA) condemned the incident calling for a swift, independent and transparent investigation into the incident.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, September 2, MOA Chairperson Agnes Kalekye said the association was relieved that Kiprotich had been found and was safe following the reported incident on the night of September 1, 2026.

“Journalists’ safety is non-negotiable,” Kalekye said, stressing that no journalist should be abducted, threatened or interfered with while carrying out professional duties.

The association called on relevant authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding Kiprotich’s disappearance and bring those responsible to account.

MOA also demanded clear institutional guarantees for the safety and protection of media practitioners across Kenya.

The association said it remained ready to engage the Government, security agencies and industry partners in a structured dialogue aimed at strengthening mechanisms for protecting journalists.

Such engagement, it said, would be pursued while upholding responsible journalism and the Constitution.