Murkomen: This is the most professional police service in the continent

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen praised the Kenya National Police Service as the most professional in Africa during a celebratory breakfast at State House.

During his speech on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, Murkomen addressed misconceptions about the NPS, highlighting its professionalism despite operating in a challenging environment.

“Lastly, let me say that if you listen to the conversation going across the country, you would imagine there is a crisis in the National Police Service. Let me tell you, Your Excellency, this is the most professional police service on the continent. And I’m saying that because Kenya is the country that has the most difficult political environment to operate in as a police officer,” Murkomen stated.

“On one hand, the police are extremely constricted in what they can and cannot do when it comes to managing the public and making sure there is law and order. On the other hand, you have a population and political leadership that is very belligerent in supporting the work of police officers.”

“So, in this very difficult environment, the police are caught between a rock and a hard place. And in such circumstances, the police have to make hard decisions—whether to side with their country or allow irresponsible political actors to spoil the country.”

Murkomen made the remarks during the event, titled “Breakfast with FKF Premier League Champions,” where President William Ruto honoured Kenya Police FC and Kenya Police Bullets for their historic victories in the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League.

For the first time in the league’s history, both the men’s and women’s titles were won by the same franchise in the same season, a remarkable achievement for the National Police Service (NPS).

Police professionalism

Murkomen’s comments come amid ongoing debates about the NPS’s handling of public order, particularly during politically charged events. He argued that the police’s ability to navigate these constraints while maintaining discipline sets them apart as a leading force in Africa. The success of Kenya Police FC and Police Bullets, he added, reflects the NPS’s commitment to excellence beyond law enforcement.

Kenya Police FC’s journey to the title was remarkable. Promoted to the FKF Premier League in 2021, the team struggled initially, flirting with relegation. However, under Burundian coach Etienne Ndayiragije, they turned their season around, finishing with 18 wins, 11 draws, and 5 losses.