Murkomen explains how 5 Mandera chiefs’ release negotiations were conducted
Interior Ministry Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has revealed that the five Mandera chiefs who were abducted by al-Shabaab militias secured their freedom courtesy of area elders.
Speaking during a round-table media interview in Wajir on Tuesday, September 24, 2025, Murkomen stated that the chiefs returned safely without any ransom being paid and that the local community guided the negotiation process.
You might also like
Murkomen said that the chiefs were freed in a manner that respected local customs and ensured their safety.
He emphasised that no government money was used, and the community played a crucial role in facilitating the release.
This move, he added, underscores the importance of community cooperation in maintaining security and protecting officers in volatile areas.
“Kama kuna chief anayehusiana na mambo ya ugaidi tungekua tumejua kitambo. Ni vile walijipata kwa shida. Walirudi wakiwa imara na hakuna pesa walilipa. Haki ilifanyika ya kwamba walirudishwa kupitia wazee na local community kusimama imara na kusema hatuwezi kubali machiefs wetu wachukulie na nyinyi jirani, ndugu zetu,” Murkomen said.
“Mnajua ni nani amewachukua ata kama ni magaidi lakini wanatoka sehemu zenu. Ile tunataka kufanya kwa machiefs, ni kuwapa support.”
He noted that the cooperation between elders and community leaders was crucial in ensuring the chiefs returned unharmed.
Murkomen emphasised that the government recognises the role of local leaders in safeguarding officers and that their support remains vital in the fight against terrorism.
Moreover, the cabinet secretary linked the safe return of the chiefs to the government’s recent plan to confer Head of State Commendations on the same officers.
The awards, he said, are intended to recognise the courage and dedication of chiefs who risk their lives for national service, while also highlighting the collaborative role of communities in maintaining security.
Government support
All the same, Murkomen reaffirmed that the government is committed to strengthening the safety and capacity of all National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO).
Also watch: NGAO urged to enhance the timely flow of information from villages to the government.
He noted that this includes providing modern equipment, training, and recognition for acts of bravery, particularly in high-risk areas like Mandera and Wajir.
Additionally, he called on Kenyans to continue supporting both officers and local leaders, stressing that community involvement is key to preventing abductions and ensuring peace.
Murkomen concluded by reiterating that safeguarding officers is a shared responsibility between the state and citizens.
