Civil society groups have filed a petition seeking the removal of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen over his shoot-to-kill remarks, arguing they incite violence and encourage unlawful police killings.

Katiba Institute, Kenya Human Rights Commission and Independent Medico-Legal Unit led the petition, telling the court Murkomen’s comments breach constitutional provisions and show he is unfit for public office.

“The petition asks the court to find that the CS, as a public officer, is not fit to hold public office,” read part of the filing.

The groups argued Murkomen assured protection to officers who carry out shoot-to-kill orders, which they claim violates Article 33 on freedom of expression and Article 10 on national values.

“The CS’ comments constitute incitement as he encourages unlawful use of force and knew or should have known he was relying on outdated and unconstitutional provisions to justify his remarks,” noted the organisations.

They want Murkomen held responsible for deaths and injuries during recent protests, accusing him of “playing with people’s lives” by making reckless statements.

The remarks have sparked public debate, with critics accusing Murkomen of endorsing extrajudicial killings.

Last Wednesday, Murkomen stepped back from his comments, saying he was outlining situations where officers may use firearms in self-defence.

“I am not the one who wrote the law. The law states that a police officer, when faced with a life-threatening situation, must be able to use their firearms,” said Murkomen.