Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has publicly addressed his relationship with the late Emurua Dikirr MP Johanna Ng’eno, following explosive allegations by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua linking Murkomen to the helicopter crash that claimed Ng’eno’s life.
Speaking to journalists in Nairobi on Sunday, March 1, after receiving the remains of the late MP and other victims, Murkomen expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, emphasizing his personal connection with the deceased.
“Personally, I knew three of the past members in a personal way. The Honourable Johanna Ng’eno, the pilot George Were, and Carlos Keteru were also my friends, and I just feel very sad to lose friends and to lose people that we have worked with before, and we feel really, really, really pained by this event,” he said.
Murkomen described Ng’eno as a heroic figure—decisive, courageous, and passionately committed to her constituents. He highlighted her collaborative spirit and fearlessness in defending the interests of the people she served.
“Honourable Ng’eno, who is a hero to many, was a leader, decisive and courageous. She defended her constituents with passion and commitment, and collaborated with many to ensure her work was done effectively.
He reassured the public that the government will support the bereaved families and the communities of Emurua Dikirr and Narok, offering logistical and security assistance while investigations continue.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Department, under the supervision of the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority and international observers, is conducting the probe.
During a campaign event on March 1, Gachagua urged Murkomen to step aside to allow a transparent investigation into the crash that killed Ng’eno, pilot George Were, Carlos Keteru, and three others. He alleged tension between Murkomen and Ng’eno prior to the tragedy.
“Kipchumba Murkomen cannot remain CS Interior while investigations proceed. The family of Ng’eno and the Kipsigis community expect fair and transparent investigations. President William Ruto should ask him to step aside,” Gachagua said.
The former Mathira MP also claimed that he had met Ng’eno in a Kisumu hotel before his impeachment, asserting that the meeting was recorded under President Ruto’s instructions.
The National Police Service (NPS) confirmed that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Department is leading the probe in line with international civil aviation standards.
Officers are securing the crash site and assisting investigators, with further updates to follow.
Murkomen extended condolences to Ng’eno’s family, colleagues in the National Assembly, and all Kenyans affected by the February 28 crash in Nandi County, which claimed six lives in total.
“We are grateful to the residents of Mosop, the county security team, and government officials for their swift assistance,” Murkomen added.
The government has pledged full cooperation with international investigators to ensure transparency and accountability in determining the cause of the crash.
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