Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has welcomed the conviction and sentencing of controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie and his accomplices over the Shakahola massacre, describing the outcome as an important step in the fight against religious extremism and radicalisation.

Murkomen commended the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the Judiciary and the multi-agency security team for their role in ensuring the successful prosecution of those responsible for the deaths linked to the Shakahola tragedy.

Speaking during a thanksgiving church service at Bushiangala Church of God in Ikolomani, Kakamega County, on Sunday, November 8, 2026, the Interior CS said the government would continue strengthening measures to prevent religious extremism while safeguarding the constitutional right to freedom of worship.

"I want to thank the DPP and all the other agencies that worked tirelessly to secure the successful conviction of Mackenzie and his accomplices in the Shakahola Massacre," Murkomen said.

He also praised the Judiciary for concluding the case, noting that cooperation among government institutions remained essential in addressing security challenges facing the country.

The CS said the government was equally committed to tackling organised crime, political violence, goonism, drug trafficking and substance abuse, warning that security agencies would continue intensifying operations against criminal networks.

On the fight against narcotics, Murkomen revealed that security officers had seized a consignment of drugs valued at approximately KSh3.6 billion in Kwale County earlier on Sunday.

He said the operation had led to the arrest of Ugandan and Tanzanian nationals suspected of involvement in the drug trafficking network.

"I applaud our security agencies. Today, they arrested Ugandan and Tanzanian nationals in Kwale with drugs worth KSh3.6 billion," he stated.

Murkomen further criticised the opposition over what he described as an excessive focus on tribal politics, urging political leaders to shift towards issue-based political engagement centred on development agendas, policies and leadership records.

"We are past tribal politics. We must drive our politics through agendas, ideas and track records," he said.

The CS also called on leaders to support President William Ruto's re-election bid, arguing that political competition should be guided by development priorities and policy discussions.

On the role of National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO), Murkomen dismissed concerns raised in media reports that the officers were being politicised, defending their involvement in communicating government programmes and supporting the implementation of national policies.

He maintained that the responsibilities of NGAO officers were not limited to the current administration but had been part of government operations under previous regimes and would continue under future administrations.

"The work of NGAO officers is to communicate the government's agenda to Kenyans. This is not just about the current government; it applies to past governments and will continue under future administrations," he said.

The Interior CS also addressed concerns over security in Ikolomani, assuring residents that the government would strengthen security arrangements to protect communities and safeguard investments in the region.

He further pledged that the government would work towards ensuring local communities benefit from mineral resources found in the area.

Murkomen said he had held discussions with the Cabinet Secretary for Mining on measures to enhance security and ensure residents participate in the economic opportunities created by mining activities.

"We have sat down with the Mining Cabinet Secretary, and we will ensure maximum security for everyone. We will also ensure that the local communities benefit from the resources," he assured.

The thanksgiving service brought together several national and regional leaders, including Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga, Ikolomani MP Bernard Shinali, Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka, Lurambi MP Titus Khamala and Navakholo MP Emmanuel Wangwe.

Also present were Western Regional Commissioner Allan Machari, Members of County Assembly and other leaders from the region.

Murkomen's remarks come amid continued national attention on the Shakahola massacre and renewed calls for stronger safeguards against religious exploitation, radicalisation and criminal activities conducted under the guise of religious practice.