Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Kipchumba Murkomen has directed the immediate and unconditional release of national identification cards being held by individuals and institutions for various reasons, terming the practice illegal and punishable by law.

Speaking on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, during the official commissioning of Nuu Sub-County and the installation of Deputy County Commissioner Washington Khoi, Murkomen emphasized that no Kenyan should be denied access to their identification document under any circumstances. He warned that those holding IDs, particularly rogue moneylenders using them as collateral must return them immediately or face prosecution. “An ID card is not legal tender and cannot be exchanged for goods or services,” the CS stated, adding that the government is committed to simplifying the process of acquiring identification documents to ensure inclusivity and access to essential services.

CS Murkomen also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to decentralizing services through the operationalization of already gazetted administrative units as funding becomes available. He noted that the establishment of Nuu Sub-County is part of a broader effort to bring government services closer to wananchi.

Addressing security concerns, particularly in Kitui County’s border areas prone to resource-based conflicts, Murkomen announced plans to deploy specialized police units. He further revealed that more officers will soon be posted to newly constructed police stations to enhance security and stability in the county.

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In addition, the CS flagged off the distribution of relief food to residents across various parts of Nuu Sub-County in Mwingi Central Constituency, aimed at cushioning vulnerable households affected by ongoing hardships.

Murkomen was accompanied by senior government officials including Principal Administrative Secretary Beverly Opwora, Eastern Regional Commissioner Paul Rotich, and Kitui County Commissioner Erastus Mbui. Local leaders in attendance included former Mwingi Central MP Joe Mutambu, Kitui County Assembly Minority Leader Jeremiah Mutua, Nuu MCA Judith Wanza, Tharaka MCA Muthengi Ndangara, UDA nominated MCA Deborah Mutuku, and former Nuu MCA Alex Musili ‘Kawaya’, among others.

The directive on the release of IDs is expected to bring relief to many Kenyans who have been unable to access essential services due to the unlawful withholding of their identification documents.

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